Pastor Deborah Lerner

Rev.  Deborah Lerner joined First United Methodist Church of Gilbert in July 2012.  She was ordained elder in 1998, then went on to  serve Associate Pastor at Paradise Valley UMC, Senior Pastor at Trinity UMC Phoenix and Spirit of Hope in Peoria before coming to Gilbert.

Get To Know Pastor Deborah

Tell us about your Family.

I have three grown sons, Josh, Ben and his wife Jenna, and Sam.  I also have two awesome granddaughters Sarah and Hailey (Ben is their dad); and 1 grand-dog Molly (Sam is her dad).

Where were you born and how long have you lived in Arizona?

I was born in Sanderson, TX and have been in Arizona since 1978.

What was your first job?

Teaching Assistant in a bacteriology lab.

What is the first thing you notice about people?

I notice their facial expressions, it can tell you a lot about the person.

Happiness is……..

A great book, quiet classical music and NO CHORES!!

When you meet God, what do you want to say to Him?

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!

What do you like most about your job?

Everything.  There is variety, it is a challenge,and  the opportunity of making a difference in lives.

Pastor Gwen Mader

BIO Coming

Pastor Tina Rees

Rev.  Tina Rees has been providing pastoral care as a deacon from First United Methodist Church of Gilbert for over eighteen years.    She is a blessing to our congregation.

Get To Know Pastor Tina

What is your favorite part of your job?

I am both a pastor and a counselor, and my favorite part of my job is the same for both jobs: helping people find God in the midst of their stories.  So often we get lost in our daily ‘stuff’—the busyness, the challenges, the day to day details—and we forget to look for God in the midst of all of it.  It’s easy to lose sight of just how frequently our Creator reaches out to us, longing to speak love and comfort to us in the midst of everything. Helping people find evidence of God’s goodness and His guidance in their lives brings them so much peace. It’s the best part of my day!

Who is the most influential person in your life?
My parents are the people who have influenced my life the most. My mom and dad are deeply faithful Christians who always led by example. They got me involved in the Church when I was very little and taught me that being a part of a church family was like being in any other family: you serve the family and let it serve you in return.  I was leading Sunday School classes for four and five year old children by the time I was in high school.  My parents lead me by their example even now, continuing to find ways to serve the church even as their declining health limits their ability to serve.  The most important part of their example is how they lean on God for their every need and continue to praise Him even in the most difficult times.

When you meet God, what to you want to ask him?
When I meet God, I don’t know that there is any specific thing I would like to ask Him.  My greatest hope is that He will tell me that I served Him well and that my flaws and failures weren’t as epic as they appear to be to me.  I guess I just want God to be pleased with what I did with the life He gave me. Most of all, I hope that God and I will be able to remember my life and laugh because I believe that God laughs as much (if not more) than we do, and I laugh a lot!

What is your favorite place to vacation?
When I vacation, my favorite thing is to go someplace I’ve never been before. I like it even better if I get to go to other countries. I love to meet people from other countries, hear about their experiences and their opinions, taste their food, and experience the beauty of their nation.  I have found that the world is full of good people and beautiful places; all of my travels have confirmed this and it only strengthens my beliefs in God’s goodness and the goodness of God’s creation.

Happiness is….?
Happiness is…relationships with other people. God lives in the space created by our relationships, and we make His presence in the world evident when we connect with each other.  That’s why so much joy and peace is created when we love each other. It is also why so much pain is created by broken relationships

Marty Province

Dr. Marty Province holds both a Doctor of Musical Arts and a Master of Music in Instrumental Conducting from the University of Colorado and a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Wake Forest University and has been our Director of Music since September 2009.

A conversation with Marty

Tell us about your family.

I have been married for 25 years to Elice Byers and we have two sons.  Grant was born in 1992 and Aaron in 1996.  If I did the math right, this should make us empty nesters pretty soon.

Where were you born?

I was born in Tennessee, however raised in North Carolina.  I have lived in Iowa and Colorado and moved to Arizona in 2002.

What was your first job?

My first job had nothing to do with music, I mopped floors in a family drug store.

Describe your ideal day.

Of course, it would be a blend of  playing my guitar and reading a good book

Where do you like to vacation?

MOUNTAINS!!

When you meet God, what do you want to say to Him?

“Why me Lord; What have I ever done……..”

What do you like the most about your job?

Making Music!!

Click here to contact Marty via email, or call the church office at 480-892-9166

Deanna Helland

Deanna has been on staff at 1st UMC of Gilbert since 2002.  She has served as our Church Accountant and Treasurer. Deanna is normally in the office Mon/Wed/Fri and is always willing to sit down with you and explain the accounting spreadsheets.

A conversation with Deanna

Tell us about your family

Deanna is married to Steve and they have one daughter, Stephanie.  They also have two special cats, Tess and Gumby

What was your first job?

Walking beans.  (guess you had to grow up in Iowa to know what that is :))

How long have your been in Arizona?

I was born in Iowa and moved to Arizona in December of 1994 and have been here ever since.

Where do you like to vacation?

I love to go to Florida or Hawaii  (she must be missing all the “green”)

Happiness is…

A day at the beach with my family at Caladesi Island Start Park in Florida, followed by dinner at the Melting Pot.

What do you like most about your job?

I love that I have the opportunity to serve God and my church by using my accounting skills and talents.

Click here to contact Deanna via email, or call the church office at 480-892-9166

Lora Norris

Lora has been the Preschool Director for the past eight years. Lora was part of the driving force to create the preschool, however prior to that Lora worked for the church in other capacities, among them the Nursery Coordinator where our little ones loved her. Click on Lora’s picture or her name to read more…

Get to know Lora more:

Tell us about your family.

My husband, Joe, and I have been married for 22 years. We have three children, Brittany who is a college student, Jeremy is a Sophomore at High School, and Riley who is in 6th grade. Riley was part of the first class that went through the Preschool here at 1st UMC of Gilbert.

Where were you born?

I was born in St. Joseph Missouri. My family moved to Arizona in 1970 and I have been here every since.

What was your first job?

My first job was at a Hallmark Store. My family and friends received many cards from me during that time 🙂

Do you have a favorite restaurant in Gilbert?

Yes I do!! We have been so happy that an Oregano’s has come to town.

Share with us one joy you have experienced at First United Methodist Church of Gilbert.

My biggest joy from 1st UMC of Gilbert are the people and our church community.

Who has influenced your life the most?

My parents influenced me to be a strong person, to the right thing, be honest and kind.

What do you like most about your job?

With my job, I get to meet new families each year. We get to know the children as well as the extended family, grandparents, etc.

When you meet God, what do you want to say to Him?

Thank you for all the joy in my life!!

Click here to contact Lora via email, or call the church office at 480-892-9166

Adrienne Mesa

Adrienne has been one of our Preschool teachers since 2008, and just recently moved into the Preschool Education Director this year.

A conversation with Adrienne

Tell us about your family?

I have been married to Daniel for 20 years and have three daughters.  Our oldest is Gabi (15), then Cora (14) and our youngest is Alyssa (12). My extended family consisting of my parents, sisters, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc all live in the Mesa/Gilbert/Chandler area

Where were you born/how long have you been in Arizona?

I was born in Mesa, AZ and have never lived anywhere else.  Once I was married we moved to Chandler and finally ended up here in Gilbert.  I am as native as they come.

What was your first job?

I am one of those lucky folks that had my first job at McDonalds!!

Share with us one joy you have experienced at First United Methodist Church of Gilbert.

I have met the kindest, most supportive and fun women and their families here.  They have given me hope, understanding and support throughout the last 11 years.  The children I meet and get to share  the years with always keep me on my toes, remind me to look at the world through the simplicity of a child’s eyes, and give me such Joy as I see them learn and grow.

Who has influenced your life the most?

Besides my parents, who have always been a support and continue to be a huge help and support in my adult life, the woman I work with and have met through preschool and my children’s school.  Many have experienced such challenges and have attacked them head on with grace, perseverance and positivity.  It gives me courage to embrace my own challenges and rise to meet them as they come.

Click here to contact Adrienne via email, or call the church office at 480-892-9166

Taleen Carpenter

Taleen has joined the staff just recently into the role of Financial Secretary.

Tell us about your family?

I have been married to Keith for 20 years and have three children, Michael, Tyler and Kalia.

Where were you born/how long have you been in Arizona?

I am a third generation native Arizonian.   I am as native as they come.

Share with us one joy you have experienced at First United Methodist Church of Gilbert.

I love watching my children as they grow and find their own path to the Lord.

Where to you like to vacation?

Camping – anywhere in the woods we can fish and hike.  Since the church has a few camping trips during the year, watch out for Taleen and her family.:)

What do you like most about your job?

I like working with numbers.

Click here to contact Taleen via email, or call the church office at 480-892-9166

Kim Fairley

Kim has been a member of First United Methodist Church of Gilbert for several years, however has just started as our Nursery Coordinator.  Kim is responsible for staffing the nursery and welcoming all the children 3 years and under on Sunday Mornings.

Let’s get to know Kim a bit better

Tell us about your family?

Three girls, Addie, Sadie  Rilie

Where were you born/how long have you been in Arizona?

I was born in Central Illinois (Charleston) and have been in Arizona since May, 2001.

What was your first job?

First real paying job was waitress at the Dutch Kitchen (an Amish Restaurant) before that I “walked beans” (cut the weeds out of the fields) in the summers for my Uncle and a couple of other farmers. Made good money for a 5th grader! Did this for probably 6-7 years.

What restaurant in Gilbert is your favorite?

I like to try all the new ones that are coming to town! Love the pizza at Pomo

Who has influenced your life the most?

This seems to have changed for me. Right now it would have to be my kids and my parents.

Where do you like to vacation?

Anyplace where there is a beach!

When you meet God, what do you want to say to Him? 

Have I even come close to being the person He needs/wants me to be.

What do you like most about your job?

Getting to know the little ones and the young families.

If you would like to reach Kim, you can here or contact her via the church at 480-892-9166.

Philip Tesarek

Philip is a long time member of our church and provides amazing leadership in Scouts and as the church’s IT Manager

Get To Know Philip

Tell us about your Family?  I have three children – Christina, junior in high school; Max – freshman in high school; Alaina – in sixth grade.

Where were you born/how long have you been in Arizona?  I’ve lived in Arizona since 1997, previously having lived in Utah, Florida and Texas.  I am third generation Native Texan.

What was your first job?  Intern for the City of Houston Parks & Recreation Department.  My first full-time job was federal/ National Park Ranger.

Share with us one joy you have experienced at First UMC Gilbert?  My longest and largest joy around FUMCG is the Scouting Ministry and their 90+ year dedication to it – watching the Scouts grow up, learn, and experience new life adventures.

Who has influenced your life the most?  My maternal grandfather.  He taught me core values, faith, and a love of the outdoors, and lead by demonstrating rather than talking.

What restaurant in Gilbert is your favorite?  In Gilbert – it is Joe’s BBQ.  In the East Valley, it is Si Senor Mexican Cuisine.

When you meet God, what do you want to say to Him?  “Thank you for many blessings and my children.”

Janelle Chiricuzio

Janelle Chiricuzio is a familiar face to many of us

Get To Know Janelle

Tell us about your Family.

I grew up in a large family of five brothers and 1 sister.  I am now married to my wonderful husband, Eli, and we have two daughters, Nina and Maia.  We have fun handing out together and watching Sci-Fi shows and playing board games.

Where were you born and how long have you lived in Arizona?

I was born in Ohio and grew up in the quaint hometown of Neil Armstrong (first man on the Moon) Wapakoneta.  I have lived in Arizona for 12 years now.

What was your first job?

Other than babysitting, my first job was a server in a tiny Amish restaurant to earn money to travel to Europe as an exchange student. Best Pies!!

What restaurant in Gilbert is your favorite?

I love Snooze as well as pretty much any of the restaurants downtown Gilbert.

Who has influenced your life the most?

My parents have influenced me the most in my life  Their extreme faith and sense of adventure mixed with a fun sense of humor and humility has been instrumental in my upbringing and has encouraged me in my relationship with Christ.

When you meet God, what do you want to say to Him?

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!

Share  a joy you have experienced at First United Methodist Church of GIlbert.

I have been a part of this church for over ten years and experience joy everytime I get the chance to get better acquainted with anyone here and then also when I get to hold the babies in the nursery!

Troy McDonald

Troy joined First United Methodist Church of Gilbert in October 2013 as the Contemporary Praise Band Leader.  You will find him up in front at 11:00 every Sunday leading us in worship.  You will also see Troy at many events at the church sharing his love of music.

Troy McDonald has been leading contemporary worship for 18 years. Playing music has been a passion of his since he was 9 years old. He began playing saxophone in 4th grade, and has played several instruments for more than 30 years. He has played in several bands and has an Associates Degree in Audio Production. Troy has taught guitar, music, and performing arts at two schools in the east valley, as well as teaching private guitar lessons. In addition to leading worship, Troy enjoys performing at weddings and other events.

A conversation with Troy

Tell us about your family.

Troy loves to spend time with his wife, Karie McDonald. They have a blended family consisting of 6 children and 2 grandchildren. They share a passion and joy in the life of Christ. They love to go on trips, ride bikes, rollerblade, exercise, bowl, hike, play games, and have family dinners. They believe that time is their most valuable gift and cherish their time as a family.

Tell us about your faith journey.

Troy also enjoys walking with others in their journey with Christ. He believes that Christianity is centered around transformation and self sacrifice. He has personally seen the changes that Christ has done in his life and the life of those close to him. He is grateful for Gods grace and the opportunity to serve.

Where were you born?

I was born in  Lewes, Delaware (small town of around 3,000 people, next to Georgetown and right on the Delaware Bay)   and I have lived in Arizona since 1991.

What was your first job?

Bus boy at a Chinese Restaurant

Where do you like to vacation

Someplace tropical or Europe

What restaurant in Gilbert is your favorite?

The Farmhouse

When you meet God, what do you want to say to Him?

“Thanks”

What do you like the most about your job?

I enjoy that I get to express my love for God, Music and singing.

As a music ministry, the contemporary worship team is always looking for musicians that are passionate about playing music and serving God. If you think that this is a fit for you, please contact Troy though the church office at (480) 892-9166.

Click here to contact Troy via email, or call the church office at 480-892-9166

Ray Vallera

Ray is an awesome addition to the staff here at First United Methodist Church of Gilbert.  He will be bringing an enthusiasm for Christ’s love to the Youth and Family Ministry. Click on Ray’s picture or his name to read more…..

A conversation with Ray

Tell us about your family

Ray and his wife Jenny have been married for 22 years.  They have two daughters Hayley and Brandi.  Ray’s parents live in Mesa, AZ.  He has one sister Candi.  Her family lives in California.

Where were you born?

Ray was born in Silver Cross hospital in Joliet, Illinois.  Grew up on Crest Hill, Illinois until the age of 15 when the family moved to sunny Mesa, Az.

Who is the most influential person in your life?

Ray’s mother has been an inspiration, source of wisdom and knowledge, and supporter for Ray throughout his life.  Ray definitely wouldn’t be the same person without his mom in his life!

What was your first job?

His first official job was at Peter Piper Pizza but before that as a youth, Ray cut lawns nd shoveled snow for neighbors to earn money.

Describe your ideal day.

Exploring God’s country in a 4×4, on a quad or riding a wave runner in one of our awesome lakes in Arizona.  We have been truly blessed with God’s creations of great beauty here in Arizona.

Happiness is…..

Discerning the Living words of God in the Bible, spending time with family, and definitely football season. Go Cardinals!

When you meet God, what do you want to say to him?

Thank you for your forgiveness, grace & mercy! I love you Lord! Thank you for never giving up on me and being there for me even when I turned my back on you and was angry and cold hearted.

What do you like most about your job?

Ray enjoys the mission work, connecting with youth, having great conversations, and watching youth’s relationships with Jesus grow!

Click here to contact Ray via email, or call the church office at 480-892-9166

Renee Ladd

Renee is a member of our church and is excited about serving First United Methodist Church of Gilbert as the church secretary.

A conversation with Renee

Where were you born?

I was born in Denver, Colorado, where I lived with my brother and my parents until we moved to Arizona in 1968.

Who is the most influential person in your life?

I am finding that my paternal grandmother was most influential in my life. She was a strong Methodist woman, who lived in a small town in Iowa and raised three children with my grandfather through the depression. I can really relate to her at this time in my life, especially, and appreciate the way she stayed true to her faith through very difficult times.

What was your first job?

My first job was delivering Fuller Brush items door-to-door in Mesa.

Where is your favorite place to vacation?

My favorite place to go on vacation is Hawaii, but I also love getting up in the mountains away from the hustle and bustle of the city. I did a lot of camping with my children as they grew up, but prefer “camping” in a cabin these days!

Click here to contact Renee via email, or call the church office at 480-892-9166

Brian Fischer

Our church is very happy to have Brian on board to help us (save us) with our AV efforts!

A conversation with Brian

Tell us about your family?   I am divorced and have one daughter who also resides in the Phoenix area.  I feel blessed that I was provided the opportunity to move to Phoenix and be near my daughter here.

Where were you born/how long have you been in Arizona?  I was born in Rochester NY.  Also lived in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Maryland, before location to the Phoenix are in 2015.

What was your first job?  First professional job was as a Test Engineer in the aerospace industry.  Through many titles and varying responsibilities since that first job, I’ve never venture too far from the high-tech business of building satellites.

Share with us one joy you have experienced at First UMC Gilbert?  I had drifted away from the church in high school, through college and into adult life.  It was only after coming very close to being seriously hurt in an accident that I realized that God decided he needed me here on earth for some reason.  I started attending church regularly after that, and have continued to be an active Christian since.  From the first time I visited for a Sunday service I felt welcome at FUMCG.  The friendly disposition of the staff and congregants has always been comforting.  I am blessed to be part of the First UMC Gilbert team..

What has influenced your life the most?  Tough one!  Lately, I seem to look to God first for answers.  It hasn’t always been the way it is now though.  Retrospectively, it seems to me now that maybe it should have been this way all along.

When you meet God, what do you want to say to Him?  THANK YOU! Thank you for the opportunities and feelings that you have let me experience!  Thank you for the lessons that I have learned and the blessings that you have conveyed upon me, my family and loved ones.  And thank you for teaching me how to forgive other.

Happiness is…..being at peace with the situation that is put before me each day, and being able to confront and tackle troubling thoughts.

Sylvia Harris

Sylvia had been an active member in our church since 2014.  You can see her with her kids at the Preschool or teaching a class.  The church is very excited to have her on staff!

A conversation with Sylvia

Tell us about your family?  I have a wonderful husband Mike and three precious children, Isaiah, Shauna & Leah.

Where were you born? I was born and raised in Western Maryland, moving to Arizona in 2014 for a new job opportunity for my amazing husband.