Get in Touch
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About Katie
Pastor. Comedian. Consultant.
REV. DR. KATIE CARSON PHILLIPS
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Katie has worked in ministry and comedy for over 20 years – in 5 different church settings in Virginia & Georgia, and as a member of multiple improv teams & artistic staffs. Her passion is connecting people to God through authentic relationship and the powerful witness of God’s grace, and humor.
A native of Warrenton, VA – Katie earned her undergraduate degree in English & history from Boston University, and her M.Div. and Doctor of Ministry from Wesley Theological Seminary. She's an ordained elder in the VA Conference of the United Methodist Church.
An educator at heart, Katie’s career has focused on creative ways to help others grow as a disciples — as well as build connections in the church and throughout the community. She's a frequent guest preacher & speaker for church retreats & workshops - focusing on creativity, team-building, and innovative leadership.
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Katie has performed improv comedy with Improv Boston, Washington Improv Theater (WIT), Chicago Comedy Festival, Women's Comedy Festival, Dirty South Improv Festival, Del Close Marathon, and more. She's one third of "Biscuitville" and one half of "HamHocks" - to name a few of the unique 2 & 3 person shows featured at national comedy festivals. Katie has been in national television commercials, filmed a few sketch shows, taught at multiple festivals and venues - and worked on the artistic staff of both Improv Boston (Asst. Artistic Director) and Washington Improv Theater (Artistic Director).
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She still jumps into shows in DC with District Menu Comedy - and, of course, preaches every Sunday at Vine United Methodist in Dunn Loring, VA.
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Katie has three daughters: Olive, Edie, & Kit – and a great husband, Kevin. They live with their two dogs (Solomon & Penny) in Fairfax City, VA.





Publications & Press
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Church Is Changing: Conversations with
Ministry Innovators
Improv Theology
Jan. 3, 2025
Leading Ideas Talks
"Improv Church: The Power of Connection"
Lewis Center for Church Leadership
Podcast Jan. 30, 2024
Washington Post
"Improv Church: God Gets Funny"
March 1, 2024
The United Methodist Church
ReThink Church/ BeUMC Profile of Improv Church
Nov. 12, 2024
​Want to learn more about Improv Church at Vine?
Click Here!



Commercial for Discovery Channel
Published Writing


"6 Leadership Practices that Enhance Involvement
and Collaboration"
Leading Ideas, Lewis Center for Church Leadership
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"He Loves You Anyway" Speaking Truth to Power
Alive Now Magazine, March/April 2010