Meet The Staff
Dr. Mike Hoppe – Lead Pastor
Mike has served as our Lead Pastor since 2013. Prior to serving at Saraland UMC, Mike has served as a youth pastor, associate pastor, and international missionary. As our pastor, he leads us with his teaching-style of preaching and challenges us to serve outside the walls of the church. Mike is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary (M.Div) and Asbury Theological Seminary (M.Div.). When he’s not in the office, he’s hanging out with his two amazing children and wife, Reed, or out on the running trail. To email Pastor Mike, click on his picture.
Linda Burr – Office Coordinator
Linda coordinates our church office, including scheduling, communications, and membership as well as overseeing our H.R. duties. Linda loves Saraland UMC and volunteers in many ways, including through her passion for cooking for large crowds. When not in the office, Linda is a favorite “mimi” to her six grandchildren. To email Linda, click on her picture.
Lauren Robbins – Kids Ministries
Lauren directs all of our ministries to all kids, from nursery through grade five. She is a graduate of Hardin-Simmons University, with a degree in Elementary Education. She brings a wealth of experience, including previous teaching positions in the preschool and elementary school levels. Lauren is married is Jason ,and together they have two children. To email Lauren, click on her picture.
enjStephanie Moye – Student Ministries
Stephanie directs our ministries, including all of our amazing leaders, who serve in our student ministries, grade 6-12. She is a graduate of University of South Alabama. During the weekdays, Stephanie serves as a math teacher and volleyball coach at her alma mater, Saraland High School. She has a passion for missions and enjoys being an aunt to her nieces and nephews. Heaven, for Stephanie, will be a wonderful land filled with sweet tea and french fries. To email Stephanie, click on her picture.
Heather Duke – Early Learning Center Director
Heather directs our weekday preschool ministries. Heather is a graduate of University of Mobile, with degrees in Organizational Management and Early Education. Prior to joining our staff team, Heather has served as a teacher, children’s minister, and church administrator. She is married to her high school sweetheart, Jeremy, and together they have two boys. To email Heather, click on her picture.
Linda Fobes – Financial Secretary
Linda oversees our financial and stewardship ministries. She is a graduate of the University of South Alabama with a degree in finance. Prior to joining out staff team, Linda has had a lifetime career in accounting and finance. She loves to volunteer both inside and outside the walls of the church. To email Linda, click on her picture.
Lauren Smith – Contemporary Worship and Communications
Lauren leads out band and oversees our contemporary worship. Lauren is a graduate of University of Mobile, with a degree in worship leadership. Lauren is married to Clay, and they have a dog at home names Calvin. They enjoy kayaking, taking walks, and anything else outdoors!
Kara Claybrook – Traditional Worship
Kara leads our choir and oversees traditional worship. Kara has a bachelor’s degree in vocal performance from Taylor University and a master’s degree in vocal performance from Illinois State University. She is currently enrolled as a doctoral student at the University of Mobile.
