Hello, First Free Church Family - 

As Pastor Kirk Albrecht's transition from First Free Church to Grove City Christian Academy approaches, we're writing to pass along some relevant staffing news. Here are some things we want you to know. 

First, we're happy to announce the promotion of Alex Ielase to Associate Pastor of Students and Congregational Care. Alex has been and will remain a dedicated minister to our students. However, as part of this transition, we plan to transition our Young Adult Ministry, previously under Pastor Alex's direct oversight, to a team of dedicated volunteers. His new role will see him working more closely with Pastor Kevin, our staff, our Board of Deacons, and others to ensure a comprehensive approach to congregational care. We're confident in Alex's ability to lead this vital aspect of our church's ministry. 

Second, we are changing Debbie Neiman's title to reflect this change. She will now serve as the "Associate Pastor's Assistant." She will continue to support Pastor Alex's ministry and help ensure its smooth operation. 

Third, we recently changed Joe Squires' title from "Business Manager" to "Operations Manager," recognizing the full scope of his oversight. 

Fourth, we're delighted to welcome Heather Clement, a longtime member of First Free, to our team. Heather will enter the Children's Ministry Leader role starting May 1, 2024. With her extensive volunteer experience and passion for children's ministry, we're confident that she will provide excellent leadership and support to Beth Jewel (Children's Ministry Assistant), Michelle Washington (Awana Coordinator), and Marie Zajdel (2024 Summer Blast and Pop Coordinator). We're grateful that Makayla Rothey, our Interim Sunday Morning Coordinator, will serve through the end of May to aid in this transition. 

We plan to share additional updates shortly regarding aspects of Pastor Kirk's ministry transitioning to new oversight—such as Adult Bible Fellowships, Global Ministries, Growth Groups, Leadership Cohort, Senior Achievers, etc. We're working through those details now and will share an update with you by April. 

Your Friends at First Free