Church Office:  firstcon@tds.net

(608) 752-8716

Rev. Wesley Bixby:  firstconpastor@tds.net

Office Hours:  Monday - Thursday    9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.     Friday 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Rev. Wesley Bixby
Pastor
firstconpastor@tds.net

Reverend Wesley Bixby was called to become our spiritual leader and teacher in September 2006. Prior to coming to First Congregational UCC, Rev. Bixby served the Smith Memorial Congregational Church UCC in Hillsborough, New Hampshire.

Rev. Bixby is a graduate of Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, where he earned a B.A. degree. Following graduation he spent a few years working in a private sector job in finance. Hearing God’s call, following a

period of prayer and discernment, Rev. Bixby attended United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities graduating in 2001 with a Master of Divinity degree.

Rev. Bixby and his wife Gina are the proud parents of Ethan and Olivia. Rev. Bixby says "Gina, Ethan and Olivia are an indescribable joy, a favorite topic of conversation for me, and always bring a smile to my face."

When not spending time with his family, Rev. Bixby enjoys running, watching movies, and taking walks with his dog Sammy. He also loves reading all kinds of books.

Jamie Dieckhoff
Christian Education Coordinator
firstconce@tds.net

Carrie Kolanda
Administrative Secretary
firstcon@tds.net

Carrie serves as our Administrative Secretary. She is the first point of contact with our church for most visitors and callers. Her outgoing personality and warm smile make her a natural in this role, as does her training and work experience. Carrie has had extensive technical college coursework in computer applications and communications. She has also had experience working as a church secretary.

When not at work, Carrie's life revolves around horses. Carrie lives on a 40 acre farm and owns ten horses and ponies . She is also a leader of the Walworth County 4H Horse and Pony Project and Coordinator of the Walworth County Horse and Pony Ambassador Program. Carrie can often be found participating in horse shows and carriage driving events statewide.

Carrie enjoys spending time with her amazing family which includes four older bothers and sister-in-laws, eleven nieces and nephews and two wonderful parents.

Brian Knutson
Music Director

Dr. Brian Knutson leads the Chancel Choir and Bell Choir at First Congregational United Church of Christ.

Brian brings a diverse background in music including twenty-five years experience conducting church choirs and community choirs.

Dr. Knutson earned a Ph.D. in choral music education from Florida State University, an M.M. in choral conducting from the University of Northern Iowa and a B.A. in music education from Luther College

Karra is new to Janesville, having moved here in October 2008. She has worked in child care since June 2007.

Karra is currently attending UW-Whitewater majoring in Early Childhood Education with a minor in Human Relations and a dual licensure for special education. She has also earned CNA certification through MATC-Fort Atkinson.

Both Karra's parents were in the Air Force. Therefore, Karra has traveled extensively. She has spent time in Japan, Greece, Italy and Germany. Prior to moving to Wisconsin, she also lived in South Dakota.