Alumni Link

2021 Distinguished Alumnus: The Rev. James H. Lenderman

Published Date: May 4, 2021

Every year, Asbury Theological Seminary seeks to honor one of our rock star alumni as Distinguished Alumnus/Alumna of the Year for the alumni you feel are doing the best job of representing Christ and ATS well. 

This year, it is our pleasure to announce to you the 2021 Distinguished Alumnus:

The Reverend James H. Lenderman, Asbury Theological Seminary class of 1991, has been selected the Distinguished Alumnus of the year 2021.

Lenderman is a native of Carlisle, Ark., and a graduate of the University of Arkansas. A member of the Arkansas Conference of the United Methodist Church, he has served pastorates at First United Methodist Church, Hot Springs; Parker’s Chapel/Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church, El Dorado; First United Methodist Church, Prescott; Grace United Methodist Church, Conway; and Asbury United Methodist Church in Tulsa, Okla. He is currently senior pastor of Central United Methodist Church, Rogers, Ark.

Lenderman’s 30 years of ministry have been characterized by his devotion to God and his heart for God’s people. Persons who nominated him for this honor have noted his faithfulness in every church he has served, from small to large, and his emphasis on leading his people in the discipline and practice of prayer.

Last year Lenderman received a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. His faithful witness is unwavering and he is facing his own death with courage and dignity.

Throughout his ministry, Lenderman has recommended Asbury Seminary to many, and his influence has encouraged many now serving in the ministry to receive their theological preparation there. He has also served on the Seminary’s Alumni Council.

The Asbury Seminary Distinguished Alumni award is designed to honor alumni who, in their personal lives and public ministries, exemplify its mission of preparing a theologically educated, sanctified, Spirit-filled, evangelistic ministry to spread scriptural holiness throughout the world.

Lenderman and his wife, Beth celebrated 34 years of marriage this past December. They have two sons, Hayden (27), who is a worship leader, and Jordan (23), who is a financial planner.

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