Andy Dayton
Lead Pastor
I started following Jesus as a small child and felt God calling me to be a pastor as a teenager. I married my high school sweetheart, Lori, and God grew our family with 5 children: Isaac, Isaiah, Micah, Matthew, and Brenna. Following Jesus one step at a time, we’ve pastored in Indiana and Washington state. I love to preach, teach and lead the church to be the biblical body of Christ. You might catch me telling stories at a coffee shop, baking something sweet at 11:00pm, or singing a random song in the middle of an otherwise normal conversation.
Ron Whitlock
Associate Pastor
I was not raised in church, but I was invited to attend the Church of the Nazarene. At 17 years old, I accepted Christ as my Savior. Following my discharge from the U.S. Marine Corps in 1969, I married my high school sweetheart, Eunice. We moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado to fulfill my call to ministry by attending Nazarene Bible College. In 50 years, I have pastored churches in Indiana, Illinois, Arkansas and Texas. I have been an associate pastor here at IndyFirst for the past 10 years. Eunice and I have been blessed with four children: Laura, Ryan, Taylor and Tracie. We have six grandchildren: Hannah, Boston, Jordan, Izzie, Sophia, Reagan and one on the way! I love storytelling and have been known to “stretch” the story a little! I love to travel and take mission trips to world areas. I especially love to preach and teach about Christ.
Andrew Rice
Associate Pastor of Finance and Administration
Hi, I am Andrew Rice, and I am thankful for my relationship with Jesus. I am fortunate to have started following Jesus at a young age, and am blessed because of Him. I am married to Anne, who is an amazing wife and mother. We have two children and a third one on the way. I have been serving the church in multiple capacities and locations for over 10 years. One thing you may discover about me is: I always enjoy a great cup of coffee and a good conversation.
Jorge Rodriguez
Pastor of Hispanic Ministries
Hello! I am Jorge Rodriguez, Pastor of the Hispanic Ministry of First Church of the Nazarene in Indianapolis. I was born in Colombia, South America. At the age of 21, I gave my life to Christ Jesus. A little after my conversion to Christ, I was called by the Lord into the pastoral ministry. One year later, I was asked to pastor a small congregation in my home town. Three years later, after studying with the Discipleship School of Youth With a Mission, I began traveling throughout South America evangelizing with a team of young people also called into ministry. Then, the Lord led me to serve specifically in Argentina, where I met my wife, Pamela, and together the Lord blessed us with five children: Joshua, Cristina, Judah, Jordan, and Natalia. All of our children are now happily married, and we have 6 grandchildren. After serving in Argentina, we were called to help plant and pastor churches in Guatemala for 12 years and Mexico for 16 years. Eight years ago we came to the United States to continue pastoral ministry to the Hispanic community here. Our joy is knowing the Lord and for Him to be known among the nations through preaching, teaching, counseling, and making disciples.
Doug Kelley
Associate Pastor of Celebrate Recovery Ministries
I gave my life to Christ as a child, and my dedication to God grew as my understanding increased. He developed within me a heart for the hurting and broken, as I witnessed the devastation of addiction and dysfunction. Anna and I have been married for over thirty years and have three adult children. We have served in ministry in Indiana, New Mexico, and Kentucky. We enjoy camping, hiking, and watching a variety of sports. I also find a good woodworking project is a great way to relax.