Our Staff
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Tyson Nofzinger - Lead Pastor
Tyson Nofzinger is the Lead Pastor at First Church of God. Tyson is married to Beth, and they have three girls. They have over 20 years of experience leading churches and parachurch ministries in Northwest Ohio and Southern Michigan.
The kids keep them busy with soccer and gymnastics. They love spending time with their church family and enjoy the outdoors. They also enjoy playing video games, cards, and board games together and with friends. You may also catch them watching anything Star Wars, Marvel, or Harry Potter.
Tyson and Beth grew up in Northwest Ohio and are big fans of the Buckeyes and Browns. They love serving Jesus and this community, and hope you’ll take the time to explore the website and consider becoming a part of the incredible First Church family!
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Larry Kennedy - Associate Pastor
Larry has served as the Associate Pastor since 1998 and has been attending FCOG since 1988. He also attended as a child in the 60’s and early 70’s. He married Tina Reynolds in May of 1993 and they have 2 children, Hannah and Isaac. Larry is a graduate of Vision Christian Bible College and Seminary. He has a Bachelor of Theology degree and a PhD in Clinical Christian Counseling.
For relaxation, he enjoys watching the Pittsburgh Steelers and Ohio State Buckeyes play football…although it may not be very relaxing at times. He also really enjoys spending time with his family and friends.
Pastor Larry’s favorite bible passage is James 1. It is his desire to help all people see their need for Jesus Christ and the wisdom and guidance He offers for our life journey.
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Jim and HeidiAnn Edwards - Youth Ministry
Jim and HeidiAnn Edwards have served as Youth Directors since 2013 for the 7-12th graders, meeting at The Summit Youth Center on our campus.
Jim has worked for the Ohio State Highway Patrol since 1997, and HeidiAnn is a stay-at-home mom. Their son, Harrison, and many pets keep them running, but they also enjoy slowing down while watching football, being with family, and sitting by campfires.
Jim enjoys participating in the Defiance College Community Band in the percussion section. He also plays drums for the church’s worship team.
HeidiAnn keeps things “under control” running sound for our church services and youth activities.
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Amanda Mock - Children's Ministry
Amanda Mock is the children’s ministry director at First Church of God.
She is married to Kyle and they have four amazing kids.
She has a passion for teaching young people about Christ and leading them in their Christian faith.
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Michelle Mayes - Rainbow Promise Childcare Center
Michelle Mayes serves as the administrator of the Rainbow Promise Child Care Center and Preschool, coming to us in June 2019 from Lexington, KY where for over 20 years she worked as a church daycare teacher, assistant director, and director.
Having attended church all her life, she became a believer at a young age.
Michelle met her husband of 25 years at Defiance College, from which she graduated with a degree in Elementary Education. The two have 3 active teenagers whose activities they love to support.
Michelle has a passion for educating children, nature, gardening, music, arts & crafts, and drama.
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Vicki Lamerson - Administrative Assistant
Vicki serves as our administrative assistant. If you have a question, she’s your lady!