My name is Dorsia Atkinson and I am the pastor of Sylvania First United Methodist Church, in Sylvania, Ga. I am a follower of Jesus (aka: a disciple) and will talk to anyone about just about anything. Now, I'm not perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but I do walk in God's forgiveness. I have a strong desire to make a difference in this world that causes a ripple effect of Jesus' love. I love teaching and helping others to understand more about Jesus and help them take the their next step of their journey with Him.
I grew up in Landis, North Carolina and have served in ministry for over 20 years, starting off in Children & Youth ministry. I have served as lay pastor of Centenary UMC, associate pastor of McRae UMC, pastor of Warwick UMC and founding pastor of LifeSpring UMC.
I'm a 1986 graduate of North Carolina State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Textile Management. After nearly 20 years in the textile industry, and after begining full-time vocational ministry, I retuned to college and received a Masters of Divinity in 2008 from Asbury Theological Seminary.
My wife, Jodi, and I have been married since 1982 and are now "empty nesters". We have three incredible children who all have their own families – Chris (Caitlin Wilkins & 2 children: Morrison, Rainy, and another daughter due in early 2022), Brian (Chandler Owens & 2 Daughters: Aubree & Landyn) and Danielle (Colby Calhoun & 2 sons: Case & Hayden).
My wife, Jodi, and I have been married since 1982 and are now "empty nesters". We have three incredible children who all have their own families – Chris (Caitlin Wilkins & 2 children: Morrison, Rainy, and another daughter due in early 2022), Brian (Chandler Owens & 2 Daughters: Aubree & Landyn) and Danielle (Colby Calhoun & 2 sons: Case & Hayden).