New To Countryside
Our Story
A place where children discover God’s love through laughter, learning, and friendship. Each Sunday, kids explore Bible stories, enjoy music and activities, and grow in faith in a safe, caring environment designed just for them.
What We Believe
Teens in grades 6–12 find purpose, belonging, and fun at YG. Through worship, service projects, and real conversations, youth build lasting friendships and deepen their relationship with Christ while making a difference in their world.
Our Values & Beliefs
Life is better together. Our Small Groups are where faith becomes real—sharing stories, studying God’s Word, and supporting one another through life’s ups and downs. Find your group and connect in genuine community.
Welcome to Countryside UMC
Countryside United Methodist Church has grown into a vibrant community of faith committed to gathering in worship, growing in discipleship, and going out to serve. What began with a vision to create a welcoming place for people to encounter Christ has become a church deeply rooted in grace, relationship, and mission.
Throughout the years, Countryside has sought to be a church of blessing—walking alongside families in every season of life, investing in children and youth, supporting adults in their faith journeys, and reaching beyond our walls to serve our neighbors. This story continues to unfold as each new generation joins in living out God’s love in tangible ways, shaping the future with hope, compassion, and purpose.
Pastors Michael Tompson-DeGreef (right) and Jeff Potter (left)
8:30 Sactuary Service
Our 8:30 a.m. traditional worship service offers a peaceful and reverent start to your Sunday. Rooted in the rich heritage of the Christian faith, this service features familiar hymns led by organ and choir, thoughtful liturgy, and a message grounded in Scripture. It’s a meaningful time to center your heart before the day begins — a space where quiet reflection and timeless traditions invite you to renew your spirit and find strength for the week ahead. For those who appreciate sacred rhythm and beautiful ritual, this service provides a comforting sense of connection and continuity within the life of faith.
9:45 Celebration Service
11:00 Traditional Service
What To Expect
What to Expect When You Visit Countryside UMC
We’re so glad you’re thinking about joining us for worship! Visiting a new church can feel like a big step, so we want to make it easy and comfortable from the moment you arrive. At Countryside United Methodist Church, you’ll discover a warm community of people who are genuine, welcoming, and ready to help you feel at home—whether it’s your very first visit or your first time in a while.
When You Arrive
Our church is located in a beautiful, easily accessible area with plenty of parking available. There are designated visitor and accessible parking spaces near the main entrance to make your arrival simple and stress-free. You can park on the North or South side. Once you enter, friendly greeters will be there to welcome you, offer a smile, and answer any questions. If you have children, our hospitality team can guide you to the check-in area for kids and youth programs, and help you find your way to our worship spaces, restrooms, or coffee area. Look for our welcome center to get you started.
What to Expect in Worship
Our Sunday worship services are a place to encounter God through music, prayer, Scripture, and messages that connect faith to everyday life. Each service lasts about an hour. The 8:30 AM Sanctuary Worship features hymns, music, and liturgy that honor our Methodist heritage. The 9:45 AM Celebration Service offers a relaxed atmosphere with modern Christian music led by our praise band. The 11:00 AM Traditional Service is the most traditional service. Each service includes inspiring messages from our pastors and opportunities to connect through prayer and reflection.
Come as You Are
You’ll see everything from jeans and t-shirts to dresses and dress shirts—so wear what makes you feel comfortable. Our focus is on gathering together, not on appearance. Whether you prefer a cup of coffee in hand or quiet reflection before worship begins, you’ll find space to connect with God in your own way.
Children and Youth
Families are an important part of the Countryside community. During worship, children are invited to take part in age-appropriate programs where they can learn about God’s love through stories, music, and fun activities led by caring volunteers. We also offer nursery care for our youngest guests so parents can worship with peace of mind.
After the Service
We invite you to linger after worship—grab a cup of coffee, meet new people, and explore opportunities to get involved. Stop by our Welcome Center to learn more about small groups, ministries, and upcoming events. Our team would love to help you find a place to connect and belong.
No matter where you are in your faith journey, we believe God has a place for you here at Countryside UMC. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
FRONT ENTRANCE
WELCOME DESK
KIDS AREA
COFFEE BAR
NORTH ENTRANCE
Countryside Staff
Rev. Michael Tompson-DeGreeff
Senior Pastor
Michael grew up in St. Louis, MO, and discovered his call to ministry after an early journey through music, faith, and survival. A Berklee College of Music graduate and testicular cancer survivor, Michael’s search for meaning led him back to the heart of Christianity. He holds degrees from the University of Kansas and Saint Paul School of Theology and has served churches across Kansas. Michael has a passion for revitalizing congregations and mentoring emerging spiritual leaders. He and his wife, Steffani, have four sons and enjoy traveling, hiking, cooking, and live music.
Rev. Michael Tompson-DeGreeff
Senior Pastor
Rev. Jeff Potter
Associate Pastor
Kristen Wooten
Office & Facilities Administrator
Terri Woodbury
Bookkeeper
Sharon Austin
Giving Secretary
Brenda Bauman Swank
Member Development & Mission Coordinator
Becky Ericson
Children's Ministry Coordinator
Rebecca Bowles
Youth & Young Adult Ministry Coordinator
Brittney Tilley
Director of Countryside Child Development Center
Jamie Meyer
Worship & Arts Director
Thomas Pi
Sanctuary Choir Director
Max Linares
Organist / Pianist
Jenna Beam
Child Care Coordinator
Paul Swank
Sports & Kitchen Ministry Coordinator
Ernest Hickerson
Custodian
Christi Steward
Wedding Liaison
Reconciling Ministries
We celebrate God’s gift of diversity and value the wholeness made possible in community equally shared and shepherded by all. We welcome and affirm people of every gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation, who are also of every age, race, ethnicity, physical and mental ability, level of education, and family structure, and of every economic, immigration, marital, and social status, and so much more. We acknowledge that we live in a world of profound social, economic and political inequities. As followers of Jesus, we commit ourselves to the pursuit of justice and pledge to stand in solidarity with all who are marginalized and oppressed.
Worship Services
Renew. Recharge. Rejoice.
At Countryside UMC, worship is at the heart of who we are. Whether you join us in person or online, our services offer a welcoming space to praise God, hear Scripture, and encounter Christ through uplifting music and meaningful messages. We celebrate traditional and contemporary styles of worship, inviting people of all ages and backgrounds to experience God’s love, find spiritual renewal, and join in community.
8:30 AM Sanctuary Service | 9:45 AM Celebration Service | 11:00 AM Traditional Service
COUNTRYSIDE UMC – 3221 S.W. Burlingame Rd. Topeka, KS
Events at Countryside
Find Your People. Find Your Purpose.
There’s always something happening at Countryside UMC! From worship and study opportunities to fun community gatherings and meaningful service projects, our events are designed to help you connect, grow, and serve. Check out what’s coming up and join us — everyone’s welcome!
