Pastors
TREVOR DANCER
SENIOR PASTOR
I love playing soccer (go Chelsea!) board games, and video games. I am a donut and Dr. Pepper connoisseur and will seek out roller coasters wherever I can.
I have a passion to awaken people to the God possibilities of their life. I believe all people are worthy of loving and belonging and have gifts that are meant to be used for the greater good.
KYRELL NEWELL
ASSOCIATE PASTOR
In my free time, I enjoy reading, writing poetry, athletics and board games with friends. I’m also a huge Marvel fan! My top joy though is spending time with my wife, Michaela.
During my seminary degree, I felt God’s call on my life to serve in some form of ministry and the vision for the Next Generation here at FUMC is a wonderful fit. I believe the work we are doing right now will help the children and youth form stronger more authentic relationships with the adults – thereby fulfilling the Christ’s mission for the church body.
STEVE BUCHHOLZ
PASTOR OF CONGREGATIONAL CARE
Staff
TATENDA GARIKAYI
NEXTGEN DIRECTOR
I love to laugh and engage in conversations. I was born and raised in Zimbabwe, and throughout my journey, I have seen and learned about different and interesting cultures. I have two siblings: my elder sister(Ronia), my little brother(Prince), Mom, Dad, and my Fiance (Tinashe).
I have always found immense joy and purpose in immersing myself in the captivating worlds of books and TV shows, and one of my favorite series is The Chosen. As a devout follower of Jesus, my faith profoundly shapes my worldview and enriches my daily interactions, guiding me to live with purpose and compassion. I first heard God’s call during the summer of 2023, when I attended VBS. There was just something about children and youth that captivated my soul.
PAUL LAEMMLI
CONTEMPORARY MUSIC DIRECTOR
I play music because it brings us together, and we have more commonalities than differences. I love podcasts, books, and late night discussion of philosophy, anthropology, and art. Nature centers my soul.
AMELIA LUFKIN TRADITIONAL WORSHIP AND CHANCEL CHOIR DIRECTOR
I’ve grown up singing and surround myself with music whenever I can. I am originally from Knoxville, TN but currently live in Columbia, MO with my fiancé and three adorable cats; Albus, Spaghetti, and Bo.
I love to sing in community ensembles and perform regularly as well as teach voice and music to young singers. When I’m not involved with music I like to spend my time with friends and family. I like to play board/video games, host movie nights, and take long walks when the weather is nice.
BRETT MCGOWAN
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
I have lived in Jefferson City most of my life and consider it home. My wife, Connie, and I have four children and five grandchildren. We love music, being out in nature, and riding motorcycles. In our spare time, we like being with our family, golfing, camping and fishing. I am blessed to be able to use the talents and abilities God has entrusted to me to further his kingdom.
LIZ GRAHAM
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
While most of my career has been in sales, I am privileged to be on this journey of finding interesting and creative ways to communicate the many activities and programs available at JCFUMC.
My interests include music, history and genealogy. I am blessed with an incredibly supportive family in my amazing husband, Rob, six kids, my parents, two sisters, one cat, and two grand-dogs.
BILL LEHMAN
ACCOMPANIST
I am so grateful to serve as your organist/accompanist and to work with our wonderful choir. Church music is a blessing to those in our congregations and to those of us involved in the ministry. I feel so blessed to serve in a congregation that values art of all kinds and cares for the instruments used in worship. Sing once, pray twice.
JENI DANCER
VIDEO PRODUCER
I enjoy baking and decorating cakes, spending time in nature, playing board games and spending time with my family. I also like to dabble in photography. I have always had a passion for being “behind the camera”, and I love that I am able to use my God-given talents to help others experience the love of Jesus Christ through video. The fact that I get to serve the church that helped raise me is simply a bonus!
LINDA JAEGERS
FINANCIAL COORDINATOR