First United Methodist Church

WHO WE ARE - FAITH AND FAMILY

Together, we are a community of believers. We believe that together in fellowship we grow closer to God and one another. The Bible speaks about loving God and our neighbor as ourselves. We believe that we grow stronger and more faithful together. 

 

We strive to be a church without walls. Jesus calls for us to go outside the walls to reach the lost and the broken. It is there that they will be found. Many churches find it is comfortable to stay within their walls, but we make it an effort to go out and work to see our city changed.

 

We highly value our relationships with one another. We look to grow through fellowship, and ultimately grow closer to God. We value the word of God and the leadership of the Holy Spirit. We look to extend grace to all of the people of Erie, and lead those with no hope to the hope of Jesus Christ.

OUR STAFF

Pastor Bob Trask 

Senior Pastor

Pastor Bob came to our church last year and have fit right in. Bob has a true heart for the people of this city and this area. He wants to see true change in the Bayfront area and will not stop until that vision is fulfilled.

 

Susan Bartlett

Youth Leader

Susan is our main assistant to Pastor Bob. We are so thankful for her heart to serve the Lord, as well as run the Erie City Youth program at our church. She is our Director of Congregational Ministry and also the Pastor of the Delaware Street Church.

Brandon Gibbs

Worship Director

Brandon is our Light for the City Music Leader. His heart for contemporary Christian music and the people it attracts is truly amazing. He provides the music of Jesus Christ in several churches across this city.

Gwen Pierce

Children's Ministry Director

Gwen is our Children's Ministry Director. She has a teaching degree from Penn State and uses her skills and love to teach our children about God. Her heart for the kids of our church is truly astounding, and she has brought her love to our children's ministry.

Bruce Gingrich 

Director of Music & Organist

Bruce has been involved with our church and the Erie Music Community for many years. If you like beautiful music and wonderful worship services, you will enjoy listening to the music Bruce provides.

 

Tom Balos

Social Media Coordinator

Tom Balos is the one who broadcasts and records the services so you can see them at home and online. You can be sure that Tom has the heart to serve the Lord.

 

Natalie Luksan

Office Manager

Natalie is our office manager. Her background as a civilian working for the military has prepared her for the many tasks this church, its visitors, and its many activities require.

 

 

Melodye McFadden

Financial Administrator

Melodye has been part of the church's administration since 2005. Her excellent financial mangement skills and caring help our church function well and run smoothly.

PART OF ERIE HISTORY

SMALL BEGINNINGS

  1. People have been holding Methodist worship services in Erie since 1826. We are still doing it today.
  2. This church was built in 1859, where people have gathered and prayed through the Civil War, World War l, and World War ll.
  3. In 1961, they built Oxford Hall where the "Light for the City" contemporary service is held now.
  4. In 1973, they opened Methodist Towers where 135 people currently live.
  5. This church is known for its nearly 200 years of beautiful music, singing, and service to the people of Erie.

HELPING PEOPLE FOLLOW JESUS