Pastor Jealaine Marple (she/her/hers) has been the purposeful interim at First since June 2022. A graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary and Northwest Missouri State University, “Pastor J” (as she prefers to be called) is thrilled to be back home in the metro area. Pastor J was raised in the Northland where she now resides with her husband, Dr. Chris Marple, and their daughter, EJ.
Pastor J previously served the people of Elvira Zion Lutheran Church located in rural Clinton, Iowa. At First, she loves the music, the people, and the willingness to engage in social justice issues. You can find Pastor J listening to podcasts, keeping up with current events, and driving her daughter to choir rehearsal (Youth Chorus of Kansas City), piano, and softball.
Theologically, Pastor J loves preaching, teaching, and making sure everyone knows about the grace of God (because it is for all people).