Ministry Staff

Rev. Dr. Danielle A. James - Minister

Rev. Danielle (Rev. D, as she is affectionately known by the youth) joined the First United community in July 2008. She brought with heran african drum, inspiring leadership and  a passion for walking with people on their spiritual and faith journeys. Rev. Danielle has a warmth and wisdom that encourages people of diverse backgrounds and experiences to draw close to God.

Rev. Danielle has completed her doctoral studies in preaching through McCormick Seminary at the University ofChicago. She holds a Master of Divinity degree from Yale University, and a Bachelor of Science from McMaster University.  Recently, Danielle has discovered the joys of making salsa and keeps busy with yoga, traveling and spending time with family and friends.  She welcomes you to explore community at First United and looks forward to journeying with you.

Rev. Danielle can be contacted through the church office or by email at rev.daniellejames@gmail.com.

Nancy Chegus, DLM - Faith Formation Coordinator

We are delighted to have Nancy Chegus join our Ministry Team as Faith Formation Coordinator.  Nancy shares her gifts as a teacher and published songwriter for the United Church of Canada.  After many years of teaching in public school systems, Nancy completed a Master of Theological Studies degree in 2007 at St. Stephen's College on U. of A. campus.  Nancy has offered leadership and music at all levels of the United Church over the last 20 years.  

Nancy can be contacted through the church office or by email at dlm.nancy@shaw.ca.

Camille Ream - Handbell Choir Director and Music Coodinator

Camille Ream is a handbell ringer extraordinaire.  For several years she has led Resounding Joy, the handbell choir and dazzled the congregation with what bells can really do.  Camille has an expansive love for music, her family and her church.

Resounding Joy rehearses on Tuesday at 7pm. Speak to Camille for further details. Contact her through the church office.

If you have a musical talent or request, please contact Camille through the Church office or click here to email her. 

Marlee Gates - Piano Accompanist

Marlee is currently teaching piano at Edmonton Music Studios. She has completed her grade 10 Royal Conservatory of Music and is presently working on her ARCT in piano performance under the instruction of Dr. Ping-Shan Liao. She also plays the fiddle and is actively involved in promoting fiddle music throughout Alberta along with "The Gates Family"; playing for jamborees, festivals, and her favorite: dances! Seeing the Joy brought to people of all ages through music inspires her to never stop playing. She will be attending Grant MacEwan University in the fall for Therapist Assistant in Physical and Occupational Therapy.

Paul Filion - Caretaker

Paul Filion is a key part of hospitality at First United.  Paul ensures that the building is ready to receive guests for our various programmes, ministries and special events.

Jennifer Abram - Executive Administrative Assistant

Jennifer has worked in the Church office since January 2011.  She is also an experienced piano teacher of 18 years, teaching private piano lessons, theory, and group music lessons using the Music For Young Children program.

The Church office hours are 9-3 Monday to Thursday, and 9-12 on Fridays. She can be contacted at 780-998-4060 or by email at fspc@shaw.ca.