Our Team

Rev. Dr. Krista Givens

We are pleased to announce, starting in January 2025 we will welcome Rev. Dr. Krista Givens as our new head pastor: With a deep passion for helping children, I was called by God in 1998 and began my journey toward the life of an itinerant minister, a disciple of Jesus and an advocate for children throughout the world. I have been fortunate in my educational opportunities, with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Scripps College (1994), Masters of Divinity (2001) and Doctor of Ministry (2007) from Claremont School of Theology. I was ordained as an Elder in the California-Pacific Annual Conference in 2005.

Letha Watts

My name is Letha Watts , I'm the Sunday school teacher , I have been for 25 years or so , who's counting . I love spending time with children . And often say I have the best job in the church. We do lessons and crafts to support our lessons. We meet in the community room and I am always there by 10:00am eager to meet new children.

Patty Kelsey

I have been the Director of Congregational Nurture since June 2011. I love the opportunity to serve God in my vocation and the blessing of my church family.

Nylean Rapinac

I started working here at the Church when Pastor Joey K. McDonald asked me in 1991. I now do financial and membership records. I love the traditional ways of our First United Methodist Church, having started coming to Church with my family in 1949 and before that at the location on Lankershim Boulevard. I love worshipping God by singing in the Chancel Choir ever since 1972. Many folks who walk or drive by the Church do not know how large and how beautiful our campus is. I have had experience in folks telling me that very thing when they finally come in for one reason or another.

Dr. Yu Hang Tan

Originally from Malaysia, Yu Hang Tan grew up in the Methodist Church. He recently completed his DMA in Choral Music at the University of Southern California. During his tenure with the USC Thornton Oriana Choir from 2019 to 2022 as the lead conductor, he led Oriana to the World Choral Festival and the Penabur International Choir Festival, achieving gold rankings in both competitions.

Roger Eshleman

Tonya Peat

I have been on staff here since August 2016. This has been my church home since November 1999 & I am pleased to be able to use my production experience to grow the church digitally. Make sure to follow us on Social Media, YouTube & our website.

April Anderson

I've been working at First UMC NoHo as the Administrator since January 2024. As one can imagine, my job is very glamorous. I have been a Methodist my entire life and an Administrator for many years, so I am delighted to be here. It is wonderful to work for a church that has so many members that care deeply about their community and each other.