Rev. Lorry Mabiala
Pastor
Rev. Lorry Mabiala is excited to serve the city of Mansfield. She comes to us from New London UMC, and has pastored in Cleveland and Youngstown, in addition to missionary work abroad. Her late husband, Rev. Andrew Mabiala, was also an ordained minister in the United Methodist Church. Pastor Lorry was born and raised in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and moved to the United States as a young woman. She has four children and a grandchild on the way. Pastor Lorry has a passion for mission and sharing the love of Jesus with everyone she meets. We are pleased to welcome her to the Mansfield First UMC family!
Nancy Metzger
Administrative Assistant
Nancy was born in Texas and grew up in Ontario, Ohio. Before joining the team at First UMC in 2007 she worked at Shelby Insurance Company and Crestview Local Schools. Nancy enjoys working with the wonderful and caring people at First Church. Her husband, Carl, is a retired teacher who continues working as a painter. In her spare time she enjoys boating, camping, spending time with family and spoiling her grandchildren.
Paul Dawson
Music Director
Paul has been the organist at First United Methodist Church since 1980, when he also began his choral music teaching carer. After twenty nine years with the Lexington Local Schools he has retired as a public school teacher, but still leads the music department at First Church. Paul's wife, Christine, plays bells and sings in the choir. They have two sons and two grandchildren.
Judy Overocker
Children's Ministry Coordinator
Judy has served as the Children's Ministry Coordinator at First UMC for many years. She enjoys working with children and helping them to discover the joys of life with God. In the past Judy served as director of the youth and children's choirs - and she still leads our kids in song every Sunday. Judy holds a Ph.D. in Extension Education and Leadership from The Ohio State University and is the Extension Director & 4-H Extension Educator for Richland County. She loves spending time with her husband and grandchildren, hosting parties, square dancing, and OSU football.