First United Methodist Church started as a few worshipers meeting in a shaded grove in 1855 and grew into a vibrant, growing congregation with over 300 members. That handful of eager settlers who met in Belk’s Grove north of Hiawatha were hungry for the word of God. Their faithfulness began the journey to where we are now. For over 160 years, God has guided and blessed us as we and as our predecessors served Hiawatha and the surrounding area. We invite you to join us in our purpose to Engage our community, Explore who we are in Christ, Equip one another for ministry to Go Forth and change the world.
Andrew Finch
My name is Andrew Finch and I am the Pastor here at First UMC. My wife Meagan and I have 1 son, John. I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha and currently finishing my Master of Divinity at Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado. I am passionate in creating space for others to come to know Jesus in their own way. My ministry stems from these four concepts: Creative expressions of hope, Powerful, vulnerable storytelling, Meaningful relationships and engaged communities that practice support and empathy, and Honest embrace of both our complexity and our brokenness. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family first and foremost! I am an avid supporter of Nebraska Cornhusker Football (Go Big Red!!!) and Sporting KC Soccer. My hobbies include traveling, barbecuing, and enjoying a nice sweet tea during the summer months.
Darletta White
My name is Darletta White & I am the Administrative Assistant at FUMC. I have been in Administration most of my life including UPS Supervisor & Human Resources. I enjoy spending time with family, sports, designing, cooking & enjoying life!
Carolyn Rosenberger
My name is Carolyn Rosenberger and I am the Custodian here at First United Methodist Church. My husband and I have 5 children between us. Colby, Sarah, Olivia, Haley and Hannah. 4 grandchildren, Maisie, Kennedy, Cruz and Noland. I was born and raised here in the church as my parents were also Custodians for 25 years. I am also a Cosmetologist of 30 years here in Hiawatha. In my spare time I enjoy reading, cooking and spending time with my big family.
Chris Diller
My name is Chris Diller and I have been the Youth Ministries Director since October 2016. My wife Heidi, a and I have 4 children, Brenna, Sutton, Tagen and Jessa. I enjoy all sports as both a spectator and or participant. I can be caught outside in my garden during the summer and reading or watching movies during the winter. I love developing leadership skills in young people and have committed a significant amount of my life and time to Student Council. My secret hobby is playing and teaching chess.
Janis Henry
My name is Janis Henry and I enjoy working with anyone who enjoys singing or playing instruments. My husband and I met at Baker University and I received my Masters of Education from Mid American Nazarene College. Bob and I have 2 children Christopher (Heather) and Janelle (Zac) and four grandchildren: Connor, Emma, Teegan and Sasha. I love all sorts of music, trying new recipes, and being with family and friends.
Joan Jacobsen
My name is Joan Jacobsen. I am the Financial Secretary. I grew up attending FUMC, was married here, and raised our 2 children, Sara (Alex) and Steve (Cary), here. Now that I have retired from previous bookkeeping jobs, I am still doing what I enjoy by taking care of our congregation’s giving. My husband and I have 4 grandchildren: Kate, Cole, Lia and Evan. Family time is my favorite thing.
Peggy Hillyer
My name is Peggy Hillyer and I am the organist and bell choir director at 1st UMC. My husband Gene and I have four children and eight grandchildren. I graduated from Kansas State Teachers College (now Emporia State University). I have been the organist for 43 years and bell director for 34 years.
Corinne Weldon
Hello, my name is Corinne Weldon and I am the Program Director of the Community Latchkey Program for over 21 years. I am the oldest of six children and have worked most of my life with children. I have worked with as a Speech Para, a Foster Parent, a case manager for Big Brother Big Sisters, and currently working at being the best grandmother EVER to five grandchildren. I have a Bachelors in Business Administration from Pittsburg State University and owned a candy store for 10 years. I enjoy old movies, theater popcorn, traveling, and checking off items off my bucket list.
Christy Hageman
My name is Christy Hageman aka Miss Christy. I am the director of Happy Days Preschool. I also assist with the Latchkey Program, Christmas Store, Sunday School, VBS, and church youth groups. I spend my day with other people's children and then come home to my two, MJ and Rhen. My husband and I are both HHS graduates and moved back to Hiawatha 5 years ago. I enjoy watching my children's sporting events, reading, and Pepsi!!
Sara McMullen
My name is Sara McMullen and I am currently teaching preschool at Happy Days. My husband Chris and I moved here about 10 years ago and we have 5 children: Colton, Koen, Liam, Taryn and James. I received my degree from Kansas State University. I enjoy spending time with my family, camping, staying active, and watching my children and their various activities.
Brenna Diller
Hi, my name is Brenna Diller and I am a Nursery Attendant at Hiawatha's First United Methodist Church. I am a high school student in Hiawatha and I am a very active person. I play volleyball, basketball, softball, I dance, and I run track. Some of my hobbies include painting, working out, and babysitting.
Makayla Pilcher
My name is Makayla Pilcher and I’m a Nursery Attendant at the First UMC. I currently go to Hiawatha High School, where I play volleyball, basketball, softball, and I’m also in color guard. In the community I am involved with the Brown Co. Jingle Bell Ride/Christmas store and Relay For Life. In my spare time I enjoy playing sports and hanging out with my friends and family.
Caitlyn Monhollon
My name is Caitlyn Monhollon and I am a Nursery Attendant for First UMC. I am in high school. I enjoy dance and I am an assistant dance teacher. I love working with kids! I attend Sunday School, church, and Youth Group here. I also enjoy playing several sports at school. I am the youngest of six kids with five older brothers.