Rev. Laurie K. Steele joined the Aley Church team as the Lead Pastor July 1, 2023 and is an Ordained Elder in the United Methodist Church. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in business, and a Master of Divinity from United Theological Seminary, with a concentration in Church Renewal. Prior to the call to ordained ministry, she spent years in the Children/Youth & Young Adult ministry, as well as a professional career as a Purchasing/Design Plan Manager in residential new home building in the Cincinnati/Dayton area.


Laurie is married to Frank, and they have 3 amazing children: Courtney, Franklin and Allison. Frank and Laurie currently live with their rescue Aussies, Andy & Dakota. She loves long walks on the beach…really, she does and loves to visit her favorite place The Outer Banks of North Carolina where she grew up. Frank, Courtney and Laurie are huge Columbus Blue Jackets fans and love Broadway musicals. She has a number of creative outlets like her love for Creative Bible journaling, playing her bass guitar and reading. Laurie has also been a balloon twisting artist for more than 20 years and has a twist business called Twists of Faith Balloons, LLC.


Pastor Laurie's days off are most often Friday and Saturday.

Pastor Abby Lightle

Connectional Pastor

Rev. Abby J. Lightle has served in a variety of ministry and teaching roles driven by her passion for helping people connect with God and one another. A former high school science teacher and coach, Abby transitioned into full-time ministry at Aley United Methodist Church in 2019, where she served for six years as Associate Pastor, focusing on outreach, youth and family ministries, and helping people of all ages experience God through community, worship, and service. She earned her Master of Divinity from United Theological Seminary in 2020 and was ordained as a Deacon in the United Methodist Church in 2022.


In the fall of 2025, Abby became the first Director of Wesley Camp & Retreat Center, uniting her lifelong love of camp with her pastoral experience. Abby is passionate about creating safe, joy-filled spaces where kids and youth can explore their faith through connection, play, worship, and community.


Outside of ministry, Abby enjoys sports, reading, traveling, and spending time with family, friends, and her rescue dog, Millie.

  • SUSAN GRINKEMEYER - Kids Ministry Director

    As the Kids Ministry, Susan oversees the ministries for infant through 5th grade and those who serve in these ministries. Click here to see more about our Kids' Ministry at Aley.

  • SARAH CARROLL - Director of Youth Ministries

    As Aley's Director of Youth Ministries, Sarah is responsible for leading youth activities, including YAA on Wednesday nights. 

  • ALISHA MINAMYER - Administrative Assistant

    Our Administrative Assistant helps our office stay organized and efficient through answering phones, emails, managing the calendar, and coordinating communication through several ministries within Aley among many other tasks.

  • Adam Clark - Media Production director

    As the Media Production Director, Adam oversees our live-streaming, sound board operations, and media for Sunday morning worship services.  He also assists with producing digital content for our social media accounts and website.

  • DENA SMITH - director of caring ministries

    Dena leads Caring Ministries at Aley and helps take ensure those involved at Aley receive opportunities for physical and spiritual care on a personal level.  Click here to see more about Caring Ministries. 

  • Steve Alliss - Church Facilities manager

    As our Church Facilities Manager, Steve oversees the upkeep and maintenance of all property at Aley. He works closely with Trustees to help Aley function efficiently and effectively.  Steve helps maintain a well-cared for property that allows other staff to be able to focus in their ministry areas without worrying about the physical space.

  • PAM RAUCH - Traditional Worship Director

    Pam manages the music in our 8:30am Traditional Worship service as well as directs the Aley Chancel Choir. She also often sings in the praise band during our 10:30am worship service.

  • CHERI WARNER - Modern Worship & Bell Choir Director

    Cheri leads the Aley Praise Band in our 10:30am Modern Worship service, playing piano alongside drums, guitar, and several singers. She also leads the Aley Celebration Ringers, who serve as the special music during our 8:30am Traditional Worship service on the 3rd Sunday of each month during their season.

  • TRACEY MCKIBBEN - Piano Accompanist

    Tracey underscores the music in our 8:30am Traditional Worship service with piano, also accompanying the Chancel Choir and Bell Choir as needed.

  • CHRISTY RIEL - Bookkeeper

    Christy keeps our financials in order, payroll processed, and accounts managed by serving as our bookkeeper.