Edsel Goldson

Rev. Edsel Goldson is a native of Kingston, Jamaica, who became a US citizen on July 22, 2008. He received a BA from Culver-Stockton College, Canton, Missouri, in 1969 and a Master of Divinity (M.Div) from Christian Theological Seminary, Indianapolis, Indiana, in 1972. He was ordained into the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in 1972, and served Disciples of Christ churches in Missouri, Indiana, and Oregon (Portland), before joining the United Methodist Church in 1978 with the appointment to Grace UMC in Seattle.

He served as the first Director of Ethnic Ministries in the Pacific Northwest Conference of the United Methodist Church, where he has also served UMC congregations in Puyallup and Tumwater. In 2003, he was appointed the District Superintendent of the Puget Sound District, supervising 35 churches. He was appointed pastor to Renton First UMC in July 2008.

Pastor Ed describes himself as a people person " who knows no stranger," with a contagious smile and a total extrovert.  His vision for Renton First UMC is to be a place of inclusion where differences are affirmed, valued and celebrated. His hope for the congregation is for RFUMC to become a community that welcomes and totally embraces people of all racial, cultural, national, lifestyle, socio-economic backgrounds, and where each person's unique gifts are brought to glorify God and to serve their neighbor in love.

Pastor Ed is married to Gertie Goldson, who retired as a manager of Pacific Northwest Bell in 1990 due to MS. Gertie's only child and Pastor Ed's step son, Vincent Craig Mason-Dupree, is an actor in Hollywood and has three children. Pastor Ed is a passionate golfer.

Leslie Huberty is working with the Choir preparing music to accompany our worship services. She comes with enthusiasm for the task of having music be enhancing and meaningful for our times of worship. Leslie is a high energy and very personable person, and would be glad to meet with you to find a place for you to share your musical talents with the rest of the congregation.

Carole Berg plays both organ and piano during services. Her nimble fingers create beautiful music as an accompaniment to the choir and as a soloist.

Juanita Bergquist keeps the office humming along with her efficient and friendly service.

Ester Preda does a great job keeping our church clean and tidy. Although she is seldom seen, her work is invaluable to making our church a pleasant place to be.

 Director of Volunteers:

 Bobbie Roney oversees all church programs and volunteer activities.