Meet Our Leadership Team
Laurie Ann Rookard
Spiritual Direction
Hi! My name is Laurie Ann and I lead spiritual direction at First Church Media. I grew up in Plymouth Meeting, Pa. My journey with God has taken me as far away as the island of Barbados and as close as the city of Philadelphia where I currently live with my family. My
courses in professional training includes a Master of Divinity from Wesley Seminary as well as a certification in Pastoral Psychotherapy and Yoga. When I am not practicing yoga or rollerblading, you might find me rock climbing or hiking in local parks!
"Be the Change you want to see in the world." -Mahatma Ghandi
Sue McMahon
Church Administrator
I was raised in the suburbs of New York City on Long Island. I lived and worked in NYC for 20 years before moving to Pennsylvania with my family. I have an Associate’s Degree from Delaware County Community College where I studied psychology, sociology and history. Following graduation, I taught adult computer classes at the college. I truly believe that God led me to First Church in 2008 through my part time job with Community Service workers. Then, in 2012 after many years of working in the human resources and legal fields, I became the church Administrator.
I found my work so fulfilling that, in addition to being an employee, I have become a member!
Andy Borghesani
Music Coordinator
Hey there! My name is Andy and I am the Music Coordinator at First Church. In addition to everything I do with music and worship, I also oversee our church's website, branding, and marketing. I have a long history in both music and education and I am thrilled to be using the gifts that God has given me with such an awesome church! I have spent most of my career in education as a choral and theatre director as well as music directing at other churches and non-profits. I love working with people and enriching the power of worship through music. In my spare time you can find me making music, cooking, drinking coffee, and traveling!
Taylor Darden
Community Outreach Coordinator
Greetings! Formally a southern boy, I have lived in the Philadelphia area since 2013. My professional background is in theatre and education, and am honored that First Church has entrusted me with this, my first church job. I also come to First Church from a variety denominational backgrounds, but my roots are in the Methodist Church. I am happy to be working with the Church during this crucial pivotal time in its history and am honored and thrilled to serve in such a unique and vital position. My work for the church involves connecting with individuals both in the church and in the community at large, through outreach, church programs, and informal social outings. I also serve as the church's social media manager. (Follow us on Twitter and Instagram!)
I am passionate about the reconciliation of the church with marginalized and overlooked groups, particularly the LGTBQIA community, and in the church's re-connection with millennials. I share in First Church's commitment and investment to this key generation, who will comprise the Christian church of the future.
C. J.
Deery
Fellowship Hall Manager
C.J. has a background in culinary arts and is in the process of greatly revitalizing First Church's kitchen and Fellowship Hall. He is the proprietor of Cedar Creek Catering, a business that is a partner of the church for events and has several charitable connections in the Delaware County and Philadelphia areas.
In addition to his work with Cedar Creek Catering, C.J. also manages and maintains the church's Fellowship Hall rentals to the community at very reasonable prices!
To put in a request to rent the hall, fill out this form!
Or visit this website for more info!
Wynetta Karandawatte
Childcare
Wynetta came to the United States from Liberia at the age of 17.
After High School, she studied to become a Home Health Aide.
She worked in this field for five years.
Wynetta then received her certificate for First Aid and studied to become
a Child Care Worker. She is currently working as a Senior Babysitter at
Rocky Run YMCA.
Wynetta has two children and is very active in the church. We are happy to have her as a part of our staff.