Rev. Sarah Varnell has been the pastor of Trinity since July 1, 2018. Prior to this, she served as pastor of the at St. Paul UMC, in Fountain City/Knoxville. Previously she served as an Associate Pastor at Church Street UMC in Downtown Knoxville. She has been on staff in various roles in churches since she was 19 years old.

She grew up in Johnson City, TN where her parents still reside. In 2005, Rev. Varnell graduated from Emory & Henry College with a double major in Political Science and Religion and in 2008 she completed a Master of Divinity degree from Duke University. She is a proud blue devil during March Madness!

As a clergyperson, Rev. Varnell is active in the District and Conference, specifically as a member of the District Board of Ordained Ministry, the Resurrection Design Team, and the Camp and Retreat Ministries Board. In May of 2017 Rev. Varnell had the distinct priviledge of being the keynote preacher at her alma mater, Emory & Henry College, for Baccalaureate during the graduation festivities.

Rev. Varnell is happily married to Mr. Daniel Varnell and Daniel is the Director of the Choral Program at Greeneville High School. The Varnells are privileged to parent and love 3 young daughters.