Our Ministry Team

Mary Lou George serves as Director of Pastoral Care and  Outreach, assisting with grant-writing, youth work and outreach in our community.  Mary Lou brings years of valuable experience in ministry and as a psychiatric social worker to her work with First Church.  She serves as coordinator of  Fight Back, our after-school program, as well as our Literacy Drop-In Center, where we help our friends in the Sudanese Community learn to speak and read English.

Reverend John R. Long, D.D., is the retired Executive Director of VIVÉ La Casa, home for refugees, and is our Parish Associate for Community Outreach.  He keeps us informed about social issues of regional, national and global implication.  Rev. Long’s ministry degree is from Yale Divinity School.

Reverend Donald F. Garrett is the retired pastor of Faith United Presbyterian Church. His pastorate was long and beloved.  He is our Parish Associate for Pastoral Care and focuses his ministry among our patient care facilities and home bound members.  He has also started a Men's Fellowship Group within our congregation.  Rev. Garrett’s ministry degree is from McCormick Theological Seminary.

Sandra S. Harwood, our director of Christian Education, has 27 years of experience in Christian Education and Youth work.  A former elementary school teacher, Sandy brings her creativity and compassionate heart to her work with the children and families of First Church.

Dr. David R. Bond, our renowned organist and choirmaster, has been in ministry at First Church for 20 years.  He combines his musical talent and passion for worship at First Church.  Often sought after for guest appearances throughout WNY, Dr. Bond is a member of the American Guild of Organists and earned his doctorate in music from the University of Michigan.