Our Staff

Rev. Isaac Lawson (he, him, his)

Senior Minister

 

Rev. Isaac joined FCC as our Senior Minister in August 2025. Previously, Isaac served as the South Central Area Conference Minister for the Southern New England Conference, UCC, the Associate Minister for Community Outreach at Immanual Congregational Church and Communications Associate at the Center for Leadership and Justice (CLJ) in Hartford, CT. At Immanuel, Isaac helped lead the congregation on a journey to becoming an intentionally anti-racist congregation and worked to increase the church’s presence in the community. We look forward to sharing ministry with Rev. Isaac! 

Joel Penrod (he, him, his)

Worship and Music Director

 

Joel's passion is creating meaningful worship experiences centered around music that speaks to all types of worshipers. You'll find everything from traditional hymns to African-American sprituals to secular music ranging from the Beatles to Lady Gaga. We have a full band on Sunday mornings with organ and violin mixed in sometimes. Joel's committment to you is that every week you'll find something you enjoy that brings you closer to God. 

Ashley Buchanan (she, her, hers)

Kayla Reeves (she, her, hers)

Youth & Children's Co-Directors

 

Ashley and Kayla work together to create safe and loving spiritual spaces for the youth and children at FCC, allowing them to ask tough questions, think big thoughts, and have a lot of fun together. As parents themselves, they are committed to helping our kids grow in relationship with each other, with God, and with themselves. Learn more here. 

Holly Ferguson (she, her, hers)

Communications Director

 

Holly's goal each week is to make sure our congregation knows about all the great things happening at FCC, primarily through our church e-newsletter. Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter by clicking this link. If you have any photos or events to share, please email them to communication@fortworthucc.org. 

Laurie Casland Simmons (she, her, hers)

Accompianist and Vocalist

 

You'll find Laurie on the piano or behind the microphone on Sundays... unless she's behind the organ or playing guitar! Every once in a while she may even surprise us with a puppet show. Laurie works closely with Joel to bring a variety of music to FCC each week and creating a meaningful worship experience for all ages.