Pastor Jay was born on June 8, 1952 in Philipsburg, PA, the
son of a Methodist pastor, Dr. Elwood Zimmerman of Mechanicsburg, PA (retired).
After graduating from Central Dauphin High School he earned a degree in Religion
from Lycoming College, and then attended Wesley Theological Seminary in
Washington, DC, graduating in 1977.
After graduation, Pastor Jay served several charges before coming to Gettysburg
in the summer of 2004; Bald Eagle Parish in Tyrone,
Paxon UMC in Harrisburg, and Christ UMC in Waynesboro.
Pastor Jay married Linda P. Meals of Lancaster, PA, and soon had two daughters,
Erin and Lauren.
Pastor Jay has focused his ministry in four areas; congregational pastoral
ministry, communications, ecumenical ministries, and benevolent care (ministries
related to homelessness, food, furniture, and clothing). He is the founder and
coordinator of the Central PA Conference Paper Cooperative.
His hobbies and interests include dog showing (conformation/obedience), driving
horses and antique car restoration.
