Our Staff
Rev. Jennifer Dawson was first ordained in the Presbyterian Church (USA) in Dec 2016. She graduated with her MDiv from Brite Divinity School in 2016. First Presbyterian Parsons was her first call. Jennifer served as Moderator for both John Calvin Presbytery and Synod of Mid America. She has served the Presbytery in many roles. When the congregations of First Pres and First Christian began to join mission and ministry, she sought and was granted standing with the Disciples of Christ. She serves both congregations in their life as Shared Faith Community.
Prior to ministry, Jennifer was a charter school principal and teacher, specializing in reading education.
Carol Hoyt, Organist
Elizabeth Stoneberger, Choir Director
Barabra Ward, Deacon
Cassandra Hamilton, Vocalist
Office Administrator Brian Orender Brian has earned several degrees during his 30-year career in public safety. He currently holds a certification as an Emergency Medical Technician. Brian has been employed as the administrator for the First Christian and First Presbyterian Churches in Parsons since October of 2023. Brian has the distinction of being one of the first disabled technicians certified by the Kansas Board of EMS. Brian has been disabled since birth but will never let the disability define him or make a goal unreachable. Brian is engaged and has a son named Mikah lovingly known as “Monster”. Amber also has a daughter named Nataleigh. In his spare time when you don’t find him in an ambulance, or working at home, he will be spending time with friends, family, or watching Nataleigh or simply “Bug” being involved in volleyball, cheerleading, or playing with her puppy Porky. Brian remembers growing up in the area churches. As a young boy he fondly remembers seeing his father deliver many sermons across the area. Thinking back, he remembered his father’s last sermon. His father, who suffered from multiple strokes which caused problems with balance and walking, was asked to deliver the message. True to form his father with assistance made on to the stage and delivered the message as he would have prior to the strokes. Determination provides results.
Last image shot at Aro Ha