jamesbrooks@fcchagerstown.org
Phone: 301.733.0144
Rev. Dr. James R. Brooks joined our church as Senior Minister on March 1, 2023. James brings focus on preaching, congregational leadership and evangelism. He has served in multi-staff churches as both an associate minister and a senior minister. James was the founding minister of a new church start in Indiana. He cherishes opportunities to collaborate with others in ministry.
James met his wife, Amy, while serving in Illinois. They share a wonderful memory of getting engaged in Paris. Amy and James have four children; Kaitlyn in Seattle, Washington; Colin in Montreal, Canada; Joseph in Edwardsville, Illinois; and Kendal in New York City.
James finds spiritual growth as a pilgrim. In 2018 he walked 500 miles in Spain to complete the Camino de Santiago. Since then, Amy has joined James in walking a camino from Porto, Portugal and another from O’Cebreiro, Spain. James’ spiritual practices include silent retreats, study, and daily prayer.
Community leadership is important to James. He has been a Rotarian for nearly 20 years. He has served on the board of directors for the YMCA and for a chamber of commerce. For 15 years he was a volunteer police chaplain. He coached YMCA basketball for 6 years. James is hopeful for similar opportunities in Hagerstown.
James earned a BA in Education from Purdue University before studying abroad in Melbourne, Australia. He holds a Master of Divinity from Lexington Theological Seminary and a Doctorate of Ministry from Eden Theological Seminary in St Louis, Missouri. James enjoys continuing education such as workshops at places like Princeton Theological Seminary and Christian Theological Seminary. His most recent paper, “Reflection on Relics in a Postmodern Context,” was presented at the Northwest Association of Theological Discussion.
mffrench@fcchagerstown.org
Phone: 301.733.0144
Rev. Dr. Maria Francesca French is a Pastor, Author, and Theologian whose work transcends traditional boundaries, engaging diverse communities both locally and internationally. With a commitment to contemporary faith conversations, she is passionate about exploring new theological frameworks while also addressing the significance of meaning-making in the 21st century. As a published author of multiple books, chapters, and articles, she remains dedicated to understanding why faith remains relevant and offers fresh perspectives on navigating the complexities of belief.
Maria holds advanced degrees in theology and ministry, equipping her to lead with insight and compassion. Her broad experience spans ministry contexts—academic, pastoral, and innovative church settings—while consistently asking: What does it mean to engage God, faith, and Christianity today? These questions are central to her ministry as she guides individuals and communities in their faith journeys, while nurturing spiritual growth and connecting with youth and young adults.
Maria’s hands-on experience includes denominational leadership, church planting, and organizational leadership. She has served as a seminary administrator and university professor, shaping future church leaders. As a speaker and preacher, she engages congregations and conferences, bridging faith with contemporary culture.
Beyond her theological passions and pursuits, few experiences in her life have been as transformative as travel. For Maria, travel is not merely a diversion but a way of being in the world—seeking beauty, rest, inspiration and fresh theological imagination.
Maria, her husband Simon, and their pup Randy spent four years living in the UK before relocating to the US for Maria’s call to FCC. They are excited for the adventures ahead.
matthewalbright@hotmail.com
Phone: 301.733.0144
Matt joined the FCC Staff in 2007. He is also the vocal director at Winston Churchill High School.
He holds Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Music Education, Organ and Piano Performance, and Choral Conducting, with a Colleague and ChoirMaster Certification from the American Guild of Organists.
He is happily married to Kristen and enjoys family time with his children Fletcher and Waverly.
aliciacatherman@fcchagerstown.org
Phone: 301.733.0144
Hello! I am Alicia Catherman, the Director of the Children’s Ministry at First Christian Church.
I am married to my wonderful husband, Michael, and we have three beautiful daughters - Kenley, Natalie, and Meredith (ages 12, 6, and 3).
I am working to complete my Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction focused on Early Childhood Education. Additionally, I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a specialization in Middle School mathematics. I am a former public school teacher in Washington County.
I aim to create a community of families that have fun raising their children at church! If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me!
I look forward to working with your family!
I am Kim Graves and I will be a teacher in the classroom beginning this fall. I am excited to learn, play, and explore with new friends!
Originally from New Jersey, I went to college in North Carolina at NCSU for Biological Life Sciences before settling down in Hagerstown. Along the way, I married my high school handsome and we raised three children; 8th grade, 12th grade, and one getting married this summer. (Oh my!)
Random bits of info... My favorite foods are chocolate and cheese, but not together, that would be silly. Being from Jersey, I love the shore... and the mountains, and camping in between. There are so many amazing places and things to see and explore, I can't decide where I like best!
I am looking forward to meeting new friends and learning together in the fall!
diannaplotner@fcchagerstown.org
Phone: 301.733.0144
Dianna joined the FCC Staff in March 2010.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, those wonderful summer BBQ’s in the backyard, visiting the historical and wonderful towns that we have so close to us, and just enjoying life to the fullest.
Melanie joined First Christian Church in 2001 as one of our childcare providers.
She grew up on a farm. She graduated from Boonsboro High School and earned a AA Degree in Early Childhood Education from Hagerstown Community College. She has worked in the childcare industry for over 35 years.
Jennifer joined the FCC Staff in November 2022.
She has a son, Randy; and daughters Lacie, Rebekah, and Merrikate; and 5 grandchildren; she is also raising her granddaughter, Sakura.
She enjoys doing crafts, camping, going to the beach, sports, BINGO, gardening, sewing, scrapbooking, and traveling. She is a Girl Scout Leader.
She loves attending First Chrisitan Church. She volunteers on Wednesday evenings during our Welcome Wednesday Excitement program. She also volunteers on the Election Board and on the RAB Board at Hagerstown Housing.
