Pastor james huenink

I began my work at First Lutheran Church in November 2021, having served churches in the Chicago area for my first 13 years of ministry. After graduating from Concordia University Wisconsin, I married my wife Kristan in 2003. We both moved to St. Louis where I attended Concordia Seminary before being placed in Chicago. I am excited about the opportunity to serve both the congregation and the El Cajon community. I love to help others see the beauty and grace of Jesus Christ as seen through the teachings of the Lutheran Church to give them the comfort and peace only Jesus can give. In my free time, I enjoy photography, researching Lutheran history, writing, and cooking.

Email:pastorhuenink@youhaveaplace.com

Linda foltz  

Office Administrator 

I'm an East County native who has seen many changes in our community through the years. The majority of my career was spent in banking, though I've also worked as a preschool teacher and in a few other fields before landing at FLC in 2008.  My position here includes admin and finance, and everything else I can squeeze in between!  In many ways my position here is the most challenging I have ever had, but also the most rewarding.  We have a great, caring membership at FLC that makes it a pleasure to serve and worship with.     

Email:lfoltz@youhaveaplace.com

Kathleen vaughn

Children, Youth, college Program Director

I am the Children/Youth Director for First Lutheran Church. I have worked in Children’s Ministries at First Lutheran Church since 2003. Before working as a staff member, I volunteered here as a Sunday school teacher, and with VBS and Easter Celebration events. I enjoy watching the children grow up and seeing their relationship with Jesus grow deeper and deeper. I started working as a youth worker at First Lutheran Church in 2014 and have loved it ever since. It is so exciting working with kids that I have known since they were born. I love the new ideas and refreshing ways they grow in their relationship with God.  My motivation here is for God to help me direct the kids to Him, help them focus on their personal relationship with Him-if they have one, and, if not, to get to know Jesus as their personal savior.

Email:kvaughn@youhaveaplace.com 

Marilyn hetherington

music director

My passion is glorifying the Lord through music!  I am blessed and grateful to be able to unite people around creating beautiful and meaningful music for worship.  I also have a heart for people who do not know Jesus, people who are marginalized and people who are broken. The work we are doing in our community through Love El Cajon and the International Friendship Center is our response to the felt needs of our community so the light of Jesus can shine in this dark world. My work at First Lutheran includes Choir Director and Organist, Handbell Director, Love El Cajon Coordinator and staff liaison for the International Friendship Center. Please feel free to contact me if you are interested in any of these areas.

Email: mhetherington@youhaveaplace.com

VICAR ROLAND ROSSMILLER

Vicar Roland Rossmiller, along with his wife, Kay, has been a member of our church for many years.  Fortunately for us, he decided to become our Vicar, being installed here at First Lutheran in 2023.  Since then he has been alternating between services, performing Vicar duties during the services.  He also works in the office alongside the pastor throughout the week, in addition to a lot of studying and testing to complete his Vicarage.  We are so blessed and thankful to have him.

Email: rrossmiller@youhaveaplace.com