January 2008 marked the beginnning of Dave Stambaugh's position of Pastoral Associate here at Hollywood United Methodist Church. Among other responsibilities, he is currently heading up our Growth Group Spiritual Formation program.

Dave’s very first job was not in ministry but as a child actor. He worked on the CBS soap opera “Love of Life” for over 8 years and appeared in a number of national commercials. Other television appearances include “The Thanksgiving Treasure” with Jason Robards, “Breaking Up” with Lee Remick and “Home to Stay” with Henry Fonda. If you grew up in the 70’s you might also remember Dave as Toby Whitewood in all three of “The Bad News Bears” films. It’s been over 30 years since Dave has spent significant time in California but he is very excited to be back in the heart of Hollywood.

Dave began working in ministry in 1994 at Mendham Hills Chapel as the director of the Singles and Career Fellowship. He started part time and led a growing young adult group in weekly worship, Bible study and special events. It was during this time that he felt called to go into full time ministry and enrolled at Alliance Theological Seminary in Nyack, NY.

In order to fulfill an internship requirement for seminary, Dave began to work at Holy Cross Lutheran Church. Once the internship was completed, Holy Cross asked Dave to stay on full time as the Minister of Adults. His responsibilities included preaching once a month and producing special holiday events.

It was during his time at Holy Cross that Dave met his wife Becky, while working together in Common Ground, a contemporary worship service that Dave created. Dave preached and played drums and Becky sang. Dave worked at Holy Cross for three years before continuing his education at Drew University. After graduation from Drew, Dave worked as the Summer Staff Chaplain at Camp Berea, a Christian family camp in Bristol, New Hampshire.

From 2003 through 2007 Dave served as the pastor of the Union Church of Seaside Park in New Jersey. He was responsible for preaching and leading worship, as well as teaching membership classes, Adult Sunday School, and Bible studies.

Dave received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Messiah College, his Masters of Divinity from Alliance Theological Seminary, and his Masters of Sacred Theology from Drew University.

Dave’s wife Becky has a history of ministry involvement as well. For many years after college she worked with the youth group at her home church, helped to lead worship, and spent summers as a camp counselor. While at The Union Church she continued to sing, help lead worship, and contribute to the life of the church. While living in NJ she taught English and Drama in the public school system for nine years and was involved in producing and directing high school and community theater for over 15 years. Becky has a Masters Degree in Counseling, and is now serving as the Children's MInistry Coordinator at Hollywood United Methodist Church.