Rev. Steve McElroy serves as the Senior Pastor of Centenary United Methodist Church, leading with a heart for Christ, a passion for community, and a love for people of all ages.

Under his leadership, Centenary is thriving with vibrant worship, growing children and youth ministries, strong music programs, and meaningful outreach.

Steve grew up in Jacksonville, North Carolina, the hometown of the Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base, where community, service, and resilience were a part of everyday life. From a young age, he loved football and wrestling, sports that taught him teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. His second-grade year was spent with his family in Israel, an eye-opening and inspiring experience that planted seeds of faith and curiosity that continue to shape his ministry today. Summers on his grandmother’s rustic farm in Arkansas gave him a love for nature, hard work, and simple joys—experiences that nurtured his heart for people, the land, and a life lived with purpose and gratitude.

Steve earned his Master of Divinity from Asbury Theological Seminary in 1989 and began his pastoral journey at just 23 as a student pastor in a small rural church in Kentucky. Over the years, he has served congregations across North Carolina, often guiding churches through growth, community impact, and times of challenge. Notably, he helped found Pinehurst United Methodist Church, leading it from its first days to a congregation of hundreds, and later oversaw major mission and membership growth at Christ United Methodist Church in Chapel Hill.

Outside of ministry, Steve enjoys kayaking, spending time at the beach, weightlifting, gardening and, most of all, spoiling his grandchildren. He is also a devoted dog lover. These personal joys reflect his belief in living a full, balanced life while embracing faith, family, and fun.

Steve is married to Reverend Lori Higgins, Chaplain and Licensed Counselor at Springmoore Life Care Retirement Center in Raleigh. Together they have four children and are eagerly anticipating the arrival of their fifth grandchild. With decades of pastoral experience and a heart for building inclusive, Christ-centered community, Rev. Steve McElroy warmly welcomes all to experience faith, friendship, and growth at Centenary UMC.