Throughout October, First Christian Church will be giving thanks for the many people whose faithful service has helped shape the life and ministry of our congregation across the generations.

We begin with someone who continues to hold a special place in the life and history of First Christian Church: Rev. Donald K. Mertz, our Minister Emeritus.

Rev. Mertz began his ministry with First Christian on September 1, 1981, and served as our pastor until his retirement in May 2006—nearly 25 years of ministry alongside this congregation.

During those years, Don walked with generations of First Christian members through worship and prayer, baptisms and weddings, celebrations and funerals, seasons of change, and the everyday work of being the Church together. He also helped preserve our congregation’s story by writing the history of First Christian covering the years 1978–2003 as part of our 175th anniversary celebration.

Following his retirement, the congregation honored Don’s long and faithful service by naming him Minister Emeritus, a title he continues to hold today.

And alongside Don throughout those years was his wife, Frances, who became an important part of the First Christian community in her own right.

As we begin Ministry Appreciation Month, we give thanks for Rev. Donald K. Mertz and Frances, for the many years they shared with First Christian Church, and for the lasting relationships and memories created along the way.

Nearly two centuries of ministry at First Christian have been built by generations of people answering God’s call to serve. This month, we celebrate some of those who have helped us become the congregation we are today as we continue Growing Faith Through Actions of Christian Love.

Thank you, Don and Frances, for being part of the continuing story of First Christian Church!