The Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference is pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s Harry Denman Evangelism Award: the Reverend Kristin Clark-Banks (clergy) of Forest Hills United Methodist Church in the Harpeth River District and the Reverend Jerrell Nelson of St. John United Methodist Church in the Cumberland River District.

This year marks the final year that the Harry Denman Evangelism Award will be offered through the Foundation of Evangelism, who announced earlier this year that they will be retiring the award in July 2025.

Kristin Clark-Banks receives the 2025 Harry Denman Award for Evangelism from District Superintendent B. J. Brack

Kristin Clark-Banks loves connecting with people and helping them along in their spiritual journeys with God. “In her 9 years at Forest Hills UMC, she has completely changed the culture of our congregation and the way that we think about church,” says Georgia Freuchtenict, Leadership Board Chair at Forest Hills UMC. “We have become a church that is laser focused on making disciples who make disciples for the transformation of the world. Many churches say this, but at Forest Hills, we are actually doing it under the leadership of Pastor Kristin.”

Kristin developed what a culture known as the “Discipleship Pathway,” an intentional process of guiding people to become more like Jesus. “During Pastor Kristin’s nine years of service at Forest Hills UMC, I have witnessed an unwavering devotion to sharing the Gospel, not only with members of this congregation, but to all with whom she interacts,” says Buddy Lea, lay member at Forest Hills UMC. “While that may not be unusual for a pastor, what sets her apart is the passion, consistency, and ingenuity with which she shares the love and tools to follow Christ from wherever one currently sits on the faith spectrum.”

Kristin has begun to share her experience shepherding Forest Hills UMC’s Discipleship Pathway with other churches across the connection. She senses that her call is to companion with clergy and congregations in developing intentional discipleship systems for forming disciples in their context.

Jerrel Nelson receives the 2025 Harry Denman Award for Evangelism from District Superintendent Jerry Wallace

Jerrell Nelson has a passion for evangelism that is particularly evident in his work with youth. He has spearheaded initiatives that not only educate young members about the teachings of Christ

but also actively involve them in church activities. His efforts have led to numerous baptisms, signifying the spiritual growth of our younger generation and their commitment to living out their faith.

His engaging approach to ministry has inspired youth to embrace their roles within the church, fostering a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere. His ministry is characterized by a remarkable dedication to acts of loving kindness, which serve as a natural extension of his deep faith.

His approach to evangelism is not merely about preaching; it is about living out the teachings of Jesus in a way that resonates with all people, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs. His love for the Lord is evident in every sermon he delivers, and, in every interaction, he has with congregants and community members alike.

Pastor Nelson possesses a unique ability to connect with individuals on a personal level, making them feel seen, heard, and valued. His efforts have not only enriched his congregation but have also cultivated a  spirit of unity and respect within the broader community, exemplifying the core message of the Gospel.

About the Award: Each year, through the Harry Denman Evangelism Award, the Tennessee-Western Kentucky Annual Conference joins the Foundation for Evangelism to recognize persons whose lives exemplify the Great Commission through word and deed. This Award honors those whose ministry of evangelism consistently brings people into a life transforming relationship with Jesus Christ. Evangelism happens in many contexts and many settings; impacts and engages all generations; and requires relationship among a variety of persons.

What distinguishes a Harry Denman Evangelism Award recipient is their passionate commitment to consistently introduce others to the Good News of Jesus Christ. Their ministry is exceptional for the number of new Christ Followers who credit encounters with this person as critical in helping to start or reignite their faith journey.

The award is named for Dr. Harry Denman, general secretary of the board of evangelism of the Methodist Church from 1939 to 1964. In the Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference, the youth, lay and clergy recipients are nominated from members of the annual conference and then selected by the Discover-Send Strategy Team. Recipients are notified by their District Superintendent on behalf of the Conference, and recognized during Annual Conference.