Getting To Know… Ansley Brackin
Director of Media & Communications

It takes a village to run a church, especially one as active as Johns Creek United Methodist Church. The reason it runs so smoothly is because of our dedicated staff, so we wanted to help you get to know them a little better

A Prayer For Ansley

Ansley Brackin has been our Director of Media and Communications for a little over a year!

Dear God, we thank you for your creative energy that you have placed within Ansley.  You have gifted her with amazing skills that allow her to share the love of Jesus Christ and the good work of Johns Creek UMC with so many.  Bless her and her family.  Continue to inspire her in her work.  We pray for the ways in which we communicate our mission and vision.  May we always seek to communicate your love in a clear and compelling way to all people.  We pray this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior.  Amen.

Where is your home town?

I grew up in the Conyers/Covington area

Where did you go to school?

I went to Reinhardt University. I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, with an emphasis on graphic design, as well as two “almost minors” in art history and creative writing.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I enjoy painting, and kayaking with my sister. I also go to a lot to concerts.

What was your very favorite vacation growing up and why?

My most unforgettable vacation was my most recent one (you’re still growing up at 28, right?). I spent two weeks in Italy and Greece. It was a trip that I had been waiting to take for about 8 years. I had saved up to go to Greece with Reinhardt’s art department my senior year, but due to the protests in 2012 it was cancelled. I was disappointed at the time, but I don’t know if 21 year old me would have appreciated it as much I did. I got to walk up to buildings and artwork that I’d only seen in books, and I have always loved learning about the traditions, food, and cultures of other places. It gave me such an appreciation for what used to be, and how far we have come.

Do you have a favorite food or restaurant?

I love trying food from all cultures. I do currently show a bit of favoritism towards Italian and Greek flavors (see previous question). It helps that both countries also have incredible, strong coffee.

What church did you go to growing up?

I didn’t really go to church. Occasionally, I would go to different churches with friends through grade school and college. Ironically, that ended up being a part of my job description at my previous job with the North Georgia Conference. I got to go to different churches and share the stories of their incredible ministries. I actually really enjoyed being a “church nomad,” and learning what makes each church unique and effective. It taught me that there is more than one way to introduce people to faith. Every church I visited treated me as one of their own, which really revealed to me the beauty of the Methodist connection.

How long have you been at JCUMC?

I have been here for a little over a year.

Describe what you do at JCUMC?

I try to keep the congregation and the surrounding community informed about the incredible opportunities and support that Johns Creek UMC has to offer. Anything on paper or online usually comes from the Communications office.  I’m also on hand in modern worship and run the video in traditional worship.

What is your favorite thing about your work?

Being a graphic design major, I love any opportunity to create visuals that are eye catching and practical.

What is your favorite thing about JCUMC? 

I have a deep appreciation for music. Our music ministry is so talented across the board. It always helps me spiritually reset on Sundays, and I love walking around campus and hearing different groups and individuals practice throughout the week. I also love what our recreation and preschool programs provide for our community. They help bring families into the church that we wouldn’t normally see and I think each of those relationships are valuable. This church is more than it’s Sunday congregation, it’s a gathering space for people of various passions, talents, and needs. You can walk into the building at almost any time of day and find a person or group using our classrooms, sanctuary, fields, etc.

Staff salaries are an important part of our budgeting process. This is one of the many reasons why your pledge is important. Your commitment and contributions allow us to maintain a hard working, dedicated staff.