First Church leadership is a partnership between appointed clergy, paid staff, and church members engaged in volunteer ministries. Â Together these leaders plan, guide, and carry out the work of the congregation.
2021-24 Strategic Plan
On August 29, 2021, the First Church membership approved a new strategic plan to guide our ministries over the next few years. Â The Church Council leads strategic planning and assessment for the congregation.
Current First Church Strategic Plan
Strategic Plan Survey Outcomes (April 2022)
2021-22 Leadership Team
Many church members serve as leaders of and representatives to ministry committees and programs.
Current leader roster
Clergy
Rev. Grace Imathiu, Senior Pastor grace@faithatfirst.com
Rev. Britt Cox, Executive Pastor  beginning July 1, 2022
Rev. Jane Cheema, Pastor of Youth, Young Adults, & Mission jane@faithatfirst.com
Program Staff
Colin McDonald, Director of Children’s Ministry colin@faithatfirst.com
Brian Schoettler, Minister of Music & Organist brian@faithatfirst.com
Mary Taylor-Johnson, Director of Communications & Membership Engagement mary@faithatfirst.com
Krys Juleen, Program Assistant for Children’s & Youth Ministry krys@faithatfirst.com
Henry Pleas, Assistant to the Senior Pastor henry@faithatfirst.com
Alexandra Rea, Nursery Coordinator alexandraj.rea@gmail.com
Victoria Faith Grisanti, Connect 56 Coordinator torygrisanti2023@u.northwestern.edu
Administrative and Building Staff
Glynis Doyle, Finance Assistant glynis@faithatfirst.com
Alexander Dungan, Administrative Assistant alexander@faithatfirst.com
Calvin Cheema, Audio Specialist ccheema@gmail.com
Jerry Love, AV Technical Director jerry@faithatfirst.com
Lee Peakes, Weekend Custodian
Athina Sato, Finance Assistant athina@faithatfirst.com
Steve Silverman, Weekday Custodian
Feel free to contact staff at the email address listed or call the church office at 847-864-6181 and leave a message.
Opportunities to Connect
Check out the many opportunities to serve and to participate in fellowship or interest groups.
