Rev. Joe Cobb is a native of Kansas, kin to Dorothy, and yes, has his own pair of ruby red slippers!

Joe received his Bachelor of Philosophy from Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas and his Master of Divinity from Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas.

Joe served as clergy in the United Methodist Church in Texas and Kansas for nearly twenty years, including pastorates in rural, small town, suburban and urban settings. He also worked as Director of Development for United Methodist Urban Ministry in Wichita, Kansas. In 2001, he moved to Roanoke, Virginia to begin a new stage in his life and spiritual journey.

While living in Roanoke, Joe worked as Director of PR and Marketing for the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra and, most recently, as Executive Director of the Interfaith Hospitality Network, a temporary housing program for homeless families. The program is a network of 30 congregations (Christian, Jewish, Buddhist and Muslim) who provide overnight shelter and meals for families as they work to secure permanent or transitional housing.

During this period of discernment, Joe began the process of ordination with the Metropolitan Community Church. MCC of the Blue Ridge sponsored his candidacy, and in July 2006, Joe was approved for ordination in the denomination. His ordination service was held at MCC of the Blue Ridge on October 8, 2006.

MCC of Winston-Salem began their search process for a Pastor in November 2006 and on January 7, 2007, called Rev. Cobb to be their new pastor.

Rev. Joe Cobb began his work as Pastor of MCC Winston-Salem on March 18, 2007.

Joe loves to preach, write and sing, and most of all, create spiritual community. His family includes his partner, James, and children Emma (15), Taylor (14), and Virginia Jane (born November 2007).