Rev. Dr. Jonathan L. Jeffords is the Director of the Methodist House of Studies and the Director of the Center for Pastoral Wholeness and Chaplaincy Studies at Memphis Theological Seminary. In these roles he develops and leads initiatives focused on clergy formation, pastoral resilience, and chaplaincy education, including partnerships that connect theological education with healthcare and community institutions. He teaches courses in preaching, worship, and pastoral care, and works with students preparing for congregational ministry and chaplaincy.

A practical theologian and preacher, Dr. Jeffords brings more than three decades of pastoral leadership in The United Methodist Church to his work in theological education. He served congregations in the Memphis area including St. John’s United Methodist Church and Covenant United Methodist Church, and held conference leadership roles including chair of the Memphis Conference Board of Ordained Ministry.

In addition to his work at Memphis Theological Seminary, Dr. Jeffords has provided nonprofit and community leadership, including service as Interim Executive Director of Literacy Mid-South and consulting roles with healthcare and public education institutions in Memphis. He remains active as a preacher and lecturer, engaging congregations and clergy in conversations around worship, pastoral leadership, and the spiritual care of communities.

Dr. Jeffords holds a Doctor of Ministry from Wesley Theological Seminary, a Master of Divinity from the Divinity School at Vanderbilt University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Memphis State University.