PASTORS & STAFF


Caitlin Cress, Pastor of Student Ministries, joined the New World staff in January of 2022. She was born and raised in Arlington, TX, and is an Arlington High School graduate. She attend the University of Texas at Arlington where she received her Bachelor of Science with a focus in Music and Biology. Caitlin discerned her call to ministry while working as the summer youth intern at Plymouth Park UMC while she was in college. Caitlin will be continuing her education at Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX in pursuit of her Master of Divinity. Caitlin has a passion for music and sings in the 11 o’clock traditional service.

Heather James joined the staff of New World United Methodist Church as the Director of Operations on February 5, 2018. She attended the University of Texas at Arlington and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Business Administration.
Heather’s first career was as an Account Director for a marketing agency working with some of the biggest brands in the consumer package goods industry. After 17 years, Heather was called to find a different path that nourished her soul and made a difference in the world. Working for New World feels like coming home to her. Heather and her husband Matt have two children, Hayden and Megan.

Kaylyn Nance joined the staff of New World UMC as the Director of Children’s Ministry on August 18, 2025. She attended Western Governors University receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education and Special Education.
Kaylyn has worked with children for the last 5 years and has volunteered within her church since she was 18. Born and raised in the Methodist faith, Kaylyn has attended New World for the last 3 years and volunteers with the Chancel Choir and Youth Group. She is excited to help foster the faith of our children.





Ashley joined the staff as the Director of New World Preschool on August 1, 2025. She started working with NWP in 2022 as a Sophomore teacher and immediately fell in love with all the kids and families. Not only is Ashley the Director, she is also teaching in the junior class. She loves being in the classroom and helping the littles learn and play all day long. Ashley grew up in Arlington and graduated from UTA in 2010 with a Bachelors in Fine Arts. She has a passion for photography, the arts and sports. She loves the Texas Rangers, and the Dallas Cowboys! She is happily married to her husband Jason and they have two wonderful children, Lincoln and Landri.