The Rev. Dr. Kathryn (Kat) Kimmel grew up in North Carolina where she learned to love the mountains, county fairs, and livermush (no, you don't want to know what's in it!)—and it was there she was formed and loved into faith. She has served in chaplain and pastor roles during her years of ministry. Kimmel and her husband, Tom, moved to Memphis in 2021 when she was called as senior pastor at First Baptist Church. For Kimmel, ministry is about showing up and being present: listening, building trust, and journeying through this life together.