Learn More About Our Dedicated Team

Will Van Wieren

Pastor

 

Pastor Will is in his 16th year of full-time ministry and is so excited to be back in his home community. A native of Rowan County, Will is a proud graduate of South Rowan High School. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Catawba College, a Master’s Degree (M.Div) from Hood Theological Seminary, and is an Ordained Elder in The United Methodist Church. Pastor Will and his wife, Megan, have been married for 13 years and have two daughters, Mya & Cora. Pastor Will is a gifted musician and enjoys playing the piano, guitar, and singing. Pastor Will loves the outdoors and in his downtime you’ll often find him hunting, fishing, or woodworking.     
 

Kelly Shrader

Associate Pastor/
Youth Ministry

Pastor Kelly is in her 9th year of full-time ministry. She has a passion for working with children, youth, and missions. Kelly graduated from South Rowan High School, earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Western Carolina University, and a Master’s Degree (M.Div) from Hood Theological Seminary. She is an Ordained Deacon in The United Methodist Church.
She and her husband Jason have been married for six years and have two daughters, Landri and Josie. Kelly loves reading, writing, iced coffee, and traveling.

Sara Joines

Director of Children’s ministries

Sara has worked at First Church for six years. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in in Christian Education from Pfeiffer University and she has been in ministry for almost 14 years.  She lives in Kannapolis  with her husband, her son, and their dog, Wrangler.  She loves working with the children at First United Methodist Church of China Grove.

 

JESSICA OSBORNE

CHURCH ADMINISTRATOR

A graduate of Western Carolina University, Jessica Osborne originally hails from Forest City in Rutherford County. She currently resides in Iredell County with her husband, Kyle, and their son, Owen. Jessica has a background in communications and was a former reporter for two area newspapers prior to becoming FUMC’s Church Administrator.

 

LISA TROUTMAN

MUSIC DIRECTOR

Lisa has been at the helm of the music ministries of First Church for 27 years. She heads up the music for our Sunday worship services, directs the chancel choir, the children’s choirs, and leads the handbells.  We are so privileged to have Lisa here with us and we think you’ll agree as soon as you experience the diverse and spirit-filled music that is a part of life here at First Church! 

Amy brown

Director of The early learning center

Amy graduated from Rowan-Cabarrus Community College with a degree in General Education. She holds a wide range of relevant childcare qualifications. She has worked in the childcare field as a director for the past 17 years.  Amy and her husband have five grown children and four grandchildren. Together they enjoy hiking and traveling. Amy also enjoys scrap-booking, card-making, and other papercrafts.

 

David tilley

CHURCH facility manager and janitor

David and his trusty assistant, Lucky, look after our facilities and help keep the buildings secure and looking their best.

 

 

 

Gerri Glann

CHURCH Custodian

 

Todd seamon

Financial Secretary