Our Team

For 190 years, children have been cherished at Independence First UMC. From playful Sunday School lessons to heartfelt Children's Moments during worship that include puppet theater, we believe in planting seeds of faith early and joyfully.

Leaders: Kathy and Karen Kelley, Debbie Carter, Tricia Green, and Katie Danner.

Serving others is at the heart of who we are. Through food ministries, community partnerships, and hands-on missions, we live out Jesus’ call to love beyond the walls of the church.

Leaders: Steve Woolf and Karen Kelley.

Music has been central to our worship life for 190 years. Our choir brings depth and beauty to every service, lifting hearts and inviting the Spirit through song. 

Music Team: Tricia Green and Donna Rekittke.

Through livestreaming, podcasts, and digital outreach, we extend our 190-year ministry into new spaces, ensuring that everyone can hear the good news — no matter where they are.

Leaders: Tim Meng, Karen Kelley, Karen Kieff, Tad Whitmire, Thomas Trasher.

Podcasts: Pastor Lydia, Sue Shineman, Deborah Abbott.

For 190 years, women of Independence First UMC have led in faith and service. United Women in Faith continues that legacy — empowering each other and the world through prayer, action, and love. is your sub-headline.

President: Pat Bounds

 Each year at the historic Santa-Cali-Gon Days Festival, we show hospitality to thousands with open hearts . It's another way we celebrate 190 years of loving our community in creative, joyful ways.

Our annual Community Block Party is all about laughter, connection, and welcome — living out our 190-year tradition of hospitality and hope.

Event Coordinator: Sheryl Morrison

Our Exercise Group for Seniors helps members stay active, connected, and full of life — embodying our 190-year commitment to caring for every generation.

Leader: Carol Schwartz