Metcalf named new associate pastor
A search that began in the fall of 2021 has culminated in the Session and congregational approval of Julia Metcalf as First Church’s new associate pastor. Thank you to the Associate Pastor Nominating Committee, chaired by Elizabeth DeVore, for their hard work over the last six months in evaluating resumes and interviewing candidates to fill this role which will serve the Next Generation ministries.
The daughter of Steve and Jill Metcalf, Julia is a child of First Church and is a familiar face in both the pulpit and choir loft. She holds an undergraduate degree in vocal performance from Belmont University in Nashville and a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary. During her studies Julia focused her ministry on youth, serving a year at The American Church in Paris, France, as the pastoral intern for youth and young adults. Most recently, Julia has served First Church as the director of University Ministries and will maintain that role as she joins the Next Generation staff.
“My gratitude to the Lord is overflowing for bringing me back to First Church to serve alongside this wonderful expression of the Body of Christ, and I am thrilled to continue to deepen the beautiful relationships I have developed here over the years as we all seek to love and serve the Lord together.”
– Julia Metcalf
Over the next few months, Julia will work closely with Senior Associate Pastor Dan Hutchinson, Director of High School Ministries Steve Wilson, Director of Middle School Ministries Jackson Seibert, and Director of Children’s Ministries Sarah Savage, in continuing to offer exciting educational and spiritual experiences for our youth and young adults.
In addition to her love of youth, Julia has a deep interest in the spiritual disciplines and leading others into the ability to deepen our personal relationships with Jesus. She is a gifted teacher, and you can expect to see her offering educational opportunities soon.
If you do not yet know Julia, I encourage to reach out and get to know this amazing young woman. I am confident you will see the pure joy she has in her heart for the Lord and the blessing she will be for First Church. The Lord has blessed us with such a gift!
About the author:
Kim Jones is a native Tulsa and a graduate of Oklahoma State University. She is a First Church elder and has served as the personnel chair since 2019. Whenever not on the tennis court, Kim and her husband Ricky enjoy spending time with their four granddaughters.