When you think of a traditional church, you might picture rigid pews, conservative values, and a community resistant to change. Central Presbyterian Church in Kansas City is anything but that. Under the leadership of Pastor Jenny Wells, this church is challenging the status quo and proving that faith can be inclusive, progressive, and deeply committed to serving others.

Pastor Jenny Wells’ journey into ministry was anything but conventional, yet in hindsight, it was always meant to be. “I felt called to ministry from a really young age,” she shared. With a grandfather and uncle who were both PCUSA ministers, the calling ran deep in her family. “My mom would tell me a story about how I would say, ‘I’m gonna be a pastor like Papa when I grow up.’”

Despite this early calling, she initially pursued theatre in college with a minor in religious studies. After graduating, she moved to a bigger city and found work at a daycare center. But as fate would have it, the pastor and wife of the church she attended invited her to dinner one evening and encouraged her to apply for a newly created position as the Director of Christian Education.

That role was just the beginning. After a year, her pastor asked if she had ever considered seminary. This simple question planted a seed that eventually led her to enroll at the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary, where she completed an online program while working full-time and building her ministry.

Today, Pastor Jenny leads Central Presbyterian Church, a place that stands out not just for its beliefs but for its unwavering commitment to inclusion. The church is proudly pro-choice, pro-Black, pro-LGBTQ, and, most importantly, pro-love. “We have a handful of members who are part of the transgender community, and we have a lot of people that identify as a part of the LGBTQ community,” she said. “It’s important to me, the congregation, the membership, and the leadership to continue to be a safe space where people can come and feel safe and loved and be who they are.”

With an all-women staff and a mission rooted in justice and service, Central Presbyterian is actively working to break down the harmful stereotypes often associated with churches. “We want people to know we’re here and that they’re welcome and can find a home here,” Pastor Jenny explained.

Faith at Central Presbyterian isn’t just about Sunday worship; it’s about action. The church operates a community garden, a food pantry, and a clothes closet to support those in need. “We can’t just throw open our doors and expect people to come; we have to meet people where they are,” Pastor Jenny emphasized. “A lot of the organizations that are involved with Troost Alliance are churches and non-profits that are serving the underserved.”

The Troost Alliance, a local organization that fosters collaboration among non-profits, has heavily influenced her work in the community. Through this partnership, Central Presbyterian is able to expand its reach and make a tangible impact on the lives of many in Kansas City.

Pastor Jenny describes her congregation as “a congregation of queer hippies who just want to love our neighbors and save the planet.” And that mission is reflected in everything they do. Whether it’s through their social justice efforts, community service, or simply fostering an environment where everyone feels at home, Central Presbyterian is redefining what it means to be a church in the modern era.

“We want people to find a place, and if it’s not here, that’s okay,” Pastor Jenny said. “I want to encourage people to find a place that celebrates them for who they are and allows them to be their full authentic selves, no matter where they’ve come from or where they’re going.”

For those looking to experience this unique church, Sunday services are held at 10:30 AM, with a special coffee hour on the first Sunday of the month featuring cake or cupcakes to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries. The food pantry is open on Wednesday mornings from 9-11 AM, and those interested in volunteering for the pantry or the garden can reach out via email at pantry@centralpreskc.org.

In a world where many feel alienated by religion, Pastor Jenny Wells and Central Presbyterian Church are proving that faith can be a force for love, justice, and radical inclusion. If you’re looking for a place where you can truly be yourself, you might just find a home at Central Presbyterian.

Check them out here: 3501 Campbell St Kansas City, MO, 64109 | http://www.centralpreskc.org/