Pastor Joel Bucklin began serving as senior pastor of First Church in 2016. He previously worked as the youth pastor and associate pastor at the United Church of Huntington in Wellington, Ohio from 2009-2016. He has a passion for studying and teaching God’s Word, and seeing people incorporate their faith into their everyday lives.

Joel is originally from Western New York. He attended Anderson University in Anderson, Indiana and Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland, Ohio. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Bible & Religion and Mathematics, and his Master of Divinity with a concentration in the Old Testament.

Joel is married to Alie who is a special education teacher in Celina City Schools. They have two children, Josephine and Myles.

“Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33

Tory Breitigan joined First Church Staff in 2015. She graduated from Chicago’s North Park University with a double major of Youth Ministry & Biblical and Theological Studies. Throughout her years at North Park, Tory interned with three different churches before joining First Church as our Director of Children & Youth after graduation. Tory married Jake Breitigan in 2017, and they live in town with their dog, Rumble.

Her passion is helping kids and teenagers know Jesus as their Lord and Savior and grow in relationship with Christ each day. Tory believes that God is going to use this next generation of children and youth to further His Kingdom.

Connie Schroer joined First Church staff in 2006. Connie is our Office Manager & Treasurer, being responsible for all aspects of the office and finances of First Church.  Connie is in the office from 8am to 3pm Monday thru Thursday. She is married to Allen Schroer. 

Shelby Rohrbaugh joined First Church staff in 2024. She aids our Office Manager with bulletins, monthly newsletters, social media, and other office duties. Shelby volunteers within our Sunday School, VBS, Awana, and Funeral Luncheon ministries. She married Adam Rohrbaugh in June 2015.

Clinton has been a member at First Church for nearly 20 years.  Starting in high school, he has served in various music ministries including adult choir, bell choir, and praise team. Clinton and Danielle along with their 5 children reside outside of New Knoxville on their small farm.  In his free time, Clinton enjoys spending time with the kids and farming with his parents.  He is passionate about growing the music ministry and including younger church members in all aspects of worship.  See you at church!