Leadership

Pastors & Staff

Cary T. Nelson, PhD, Pastor

Pastor Cary and his wife Michelle and their three children moved to Trinidad in 2000 in response to God’s call to pastor First Christian Church.
They have a heart to see God working through the lives of His people. They especially have a vision of God reaching and changing every person in Trinidad through the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Cary holds a Doctorate of Theology, and Michelle holds a Bachelor’s degree in Theology. Together, they have over 40 years of experience in Christian ministry. They pray God’s very best for you and yours.

Dave Shaver, Associate Pastor

Dave moved to Trinidad in 1996 when he married his wife Julie right here at First Christian Church. He has been a member ever since, serving in a variety of ways through sound, video production, youth leadership, the church band, our website, live streaming, and now as an associate pastor. Dave and Julie are parents of daughters Adra and Hannah.

Dave has a Bachelor's degrees in Computer Science from the University of Northern Colorado and a Bachelor's degree in Theology from Life Christian University through FCC.

During the week, Dave is the IT Director for MCMC, a critical access hospital where he oversees the computers, networks, and various technologies used to keep a hospital in operation. He has extensive experience in all aspects of computing and enjoys the challenges and adventures of technology.

On Sundays you can find Dave on stage playing in our FCC church band, overseeing our live streaming broadcasts, taking notes on the sermon for our website, and occasionally preaching from the pulpit... among other things. Dave is passionate about serving the Lord and is blessed to be a part of the FCC family.

Bob Walton, Associate Pastor

Bob serves a dual role as both our Praise and Worship leader and our primary Youth leader. He and his wife Melissa and their four children have attended First Christian Church for many years and are an integral part of our church family.

With an extensive background in music performance, Bob leads our band and the congregation in song, helping to usher in the presence of the Holy Spirit and to prepare hearts to receive the message following our music service. He also fills in at the pulpit on occasion.

As Youth Leader, Bob is a major influence to the youth of our church and the surrounding community. Setting an example of faith and the love of Jesus, he demonstrates strength, compassion, and the power of personal transformation found in Jesus Christ.

In his spare time, Bob is an assistant basketball coach for Raton High School, teaching personal responsibility, teamwork, and physical fitness to the youth of our community outside the church.