Mary Jane Button-Harrison
Pastor

Born in Minnesota, raised and attended college in Iowa, attended seminary in the Chicago metro area, I am truly a mid-westerner!  I have been in ministry at First Christian Church in Ames since 2006 and am enjoying both Ames and First Christian very much!  This congregation never ceases to amaze me (in a good way) and I feel blessed to be here.

I am married to Tim, an ordained Church of the Brethren minister.  Together we have two young adult children, Sam and Hannah.  We enjoy singing and playing music together.  I enjoy walks with Tim, eating fresh vegetables, traveling, and engaging in both theological and philosophical conversations with all kinds of people.

David Digby
Theologian-in-Residence

Before retiring from pastoral ministry at the end of 2008, and taking on this very part-time staff position as Theologian-in-Residence, I served along-side others, including Mary Jane, as one of the pastors at First Christian for 25 years. 

Christian faith is a journey and I am on the road a lot.  As Theologian-in-Residence I am charged with asking important theological questions and returning to Ames to engage others in discussion about those.  I am deeply grateful to the people of FCC for allowing this rare opportunity to reflect on the faith that inspires and nourishes all.

When we’re not in Ames, my wife, Meg, and I are out in our motor home touring about the country or sailing on Red Rock Lake.  My wife Meg and I met and were married at First Christian.  I have five grown children all of whom are parents themselves. 

Colleen McRoberts
Director of Music

I come to Ames from Colorado, where I was born and raised.  I started piano lessons before I knew how to read, and my love for music has steadily grown from there.  I have been a pianist, chorister, opera singer, praise band singer, teacher, conductor, composer, arranger, and organist.  I received a degree in music from Colorado State University in 1996, and I have been an avid participant in worship music from that time.  

At First Christian Church, it is my pleasure to work with the choir, bell choir, soloists, instrumentalists, pastor and members of the congregation to create relevant passionate worship music that expresses the heart and soul of First Christian Church.

To find out how you can be a part of music at First Christian Church, contact Colleen McRoberts, Director of Music

Vicki Whitman
Administrative Assistant

I enjoy Ames and have lived here for over 45 years.  For nearly 10 years I have felt privileged to serve God through my work at First Christian Church. 

I became a believer at age 33.  I have three grown children, Brian and his wife, Kim, who live in Cedar Falls with two sons, Zachary and Micah; John and his wife, Diane, who live in Colorado Springs, CO with two sons, Caleb and Kenny; and Julia Ann who lives in the Des Moines area.

I enjoy a variety of duties in my work here.  I am a “go to” person for questions, information, communication.  I keep things organized and scheduled.  If you have a question, I often can find the answer or direct you to the right person.

Sherri Khan
Custodian

Born and raised in the Ames area, I have worked for First Christian Church since November 1996. It has been very enjoyable to work with all of the staff and congregants. 

I enjoy walking, reading, painting and playing video games.  An avid collector of music, I also enjoy traveling to visit museums and historical sites.

Karen LeCount
Nursery Attendant