Biography of Rev. Bernard J. (Bern) Kefer

            Pastor Bern comes to Calvary UMC as an ordained elder connected to the United Methodist Church. He is a graduate of West Chester State College and the Lancaster Theological Seminary.  Bern held leadership positions in five congregations before Calvary, both as a lay member and as the pastor. He has also been active in the business community and in local service organizations.

            Bern is a second career minister who entered seminary after a career in wholesale sales and warehouse management. Calvary is the third church he will serve as pastor. As a clergy member, Bern has served as Treasurer of the cooperative ministry LUMINA, trained as a Clergy Transitions Coach, written for a District newsletter, and served as facilitator of a local United Methodist clergy group. He has extensive experience in nonprofit organizations, implementing new ministry visions, working with volunteers, and in cooperative ministries.

            He has been married to Victoria Hankins Kefer for 25 years, and partners with her in parenting three children: Matthew, Christopher, and Elizabeth. Matt is a working adult, Chris attends West Chester University and Beth is a student at Kutztown. He enjoys reading, camping, watching classic movies and visiting local restaurants. His favorite scripture verses are “Truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.” Matthew 18:19-20. He looks forward to helping both new and experienced believers in discovering Jesus in the midst of this wonderful congregation.