Grant Wade has served as the pastor of First Christian Church since 2010. With a heart for community and a deep love for thoughtful, inclusive ministry, Grant brings over a decade of pastoral experience rooted in scripture, grace, and hospitality. He recently completed his Doctor of Ministry degree, with a focus on Contextual Theology, and is passionate about helping the church be a place where all people feel seen, valued, and equipped to live out their faith in meaningful ways.

Grant is married to Erin, a dedicated and talented math teacher at Sullivan High School. Together, they are raising three wonderful children—Gavin, Emery, and Sawyer—who keep life full of laughter, sports, and adventure. The Wades are active in the Sullivan community, where their children enjoy playing baseball, softball, and basketball. As a family, they value time spent outdoors, cheering on each other from the bleachers, and creating space at home for both fun and faith.

Whether in the pulpit, the ballfield, or around town, Grant sees ministry not just as a job, but as a calling to build bridges, ask good questions, and cultivate a spirit of generosity and grace in everyday life

Julie joined the FCC staff in 2015 as our Administrative Assistant. If you stop by the church during the week, chances are you’ll interact with Julie. Julie handles our office and bookkeeping and is an asset to our staff. If you get the chance, stop in and talk to her!

Jill Inman serves FCC in two important roles: as our Custodian, and also as our Nursery Coordinator. Jill is highly organized and has great attention to detail. She is a very caring person and is a wonderfully welcoming presence in our nursery!

Hannah has been a part of the First Christian Church family since she was 12 years old, and today she brings her love for children, her warm spirit, and her steady presence to our nursery ministry. As a nursery attendant, Hannah provides a safe, nurturing, and joyful environment for our youngest churchgoers each week. Her love for “baby/kiddo snuggles” is evident to anyone who sees her in action!

A lifelong Sullivan resident and graduate of Sullivan High School (Class of 2016), Hannah has a heart for service that led her to spend several years in the Army National Guard. She later earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Exercise Science and Exercise Physiology from Eastern Illinois University. She currently works part-time as a sports official at the Mattoon YMCA and recently stepped into coaching middle school boys track—combining her love for fitness, running, and mentoring young athletes.

When she’s not in the nursery or on the field, you might find Hannah enjoying a good book, exploring local coffee shops (iced coffee with oat milk is her go-to!), or spending time with her beloved Great Pyrenees, Piper Ann. She’s also a proud aunt and adores her nephews and niece.

Hannah’s passion for caring for others—especially little ones—shines through in all she does. We’re so thankful for her presence on our nursery team and in our church family.

Debbie serves as FCC’s choir director. She has been directing the church choir since 1985 and as such has been on staff longer than any of our other staff members. Debbie is a wonderful person and we are privileged to have her and such a wonderful choir.

Kelly has been accompanying our choir as well as playing the organ since 1991. She is a very talented musician and we are very grateful for her gifts!