Rev. Lynn Scott, Interim Pastor:

Hello, and welcome to First Christian Church. It’s a great place to be and to become a part of! I’m serving as interim pastor while the search committee looks for a new settled pastor. I’ve served churches in Kansas City, Oklahoma, Iowa, and Kansas. Over the years, I have been a Youth and Children’s Pastor, Associate Pastor, Primary Pastor, and New Church Pastor.

My wife, Linda, teaches fifth grade in the Maize Kansas School District. We have a daughter, Becca, who lives and works in Kansas City, and, two sons, Jeremiah and Nehemiah. Jeremiah attends Friends University and plays football. Nehemiah is a senior at Maize South High School, plays football and wrestles. I look forward to knowing you, and serving the Lord together.

Shelly Miller, Secretary:

Managing a church office brings unique challenges, as Shelley has certainly experienced.  Coming to First Christian in 2009, Shelley has become immersed in the workings of the church, learning at least a little bit about everything!  Shelley’s bookkeeping background gives her the attention to detail that is so very important, and her heart for service and compassion for people make her the perfect person for this position. 

Shelley is married to Dan, and they have two children, Logan and Nicole.

Teri Russell, Director of Music:

Teri joined First Christian Church after moving to McPherson in 1992.  She has filled various roles in the Music Ministry since that time, including singing in the choir, ringing in the Bell Choir, and directing the Children’s music program for more than a decade.  In addition to coordinating the music and worship schedules, Teri also directs the Sanctuary Choir.  With no “formal” music training, Teri’s experience in Communications and Marketing, combined with her love of music, bring enthusiasm and creativity to our music programs and to our worship.  

Teri and her husband, Cyril, who is also very involved in the music ministry, have two adult children, Lauren and Austin.  Cyril and Teri are also graduates of Phillips University, a Disciples school (which has sadly closed).

Paula Shearhart, Bell Choir Director:

Having served in the Sanctuary Choir, and after being “discovered” as a tremendous pianist (not to mention various other instruments), Paula found her calling to the Bell Choir in 2008.  Paula brings fresh ideas and a wonderful sense of humor to this group, and the results are amazing.  Even those with no musical training can excel in Paula’s Bell Choir and all are encouraged to participate.  

Paula and her husband, Jerry have four adult children, one grandson and enjoy living in rural McPherson.

Kris Thompson, Children's Choir Director:

Kris Thompson has served in our Children’s Music Ministry for more than 10 years, in a variety of areas.  She now leads the music portion of our Wednesday evening children’s program – Rock Solid Kidz.  Through singing and ringing bells, Kris shares her love of Jesus with children ranging from 3 -12 years old.  

In addition to her full time “regular” job, Kris also directs the McPherson Arts Council Children’s Choir, a community choir of children in grades 3 through 6.  First Christian is happy to partner with this organization and welcomes them into the church building weekly, as well as periodic participation in Sunday worship.  

A McPherson native, Kris is married to Wayne and they have two sons, Michael and Taylor.

Jina Dickerson, Custodian:

What would we ever do without Jina?  Since 2001, she has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure our facilities are prepared for the wide variety of events happening in our church building.  Jina is a dedicated and hard-working member of the church and her talents are a blessing to our congregation.  

Jina and her husband, Gary have three children, Bryan, Dalen and Abby.