Staff

Meet the team

Justin Sturgeon - Lead Pastor

Rooted in a deep commitment to Scripture, Justin is passionate about helping people to find and follow Jesus. His heart compels him to champion addiction recovery, share hope, and build authentic community where all belong. With a strong biblical foundation, he leads First Christian Church with grace and truth, partnering with the Holy Spirit to transform lives through Christ’s love in The Dalles and beyond. Since August 2016, Justin has served in pastoral leadership, informed by his undergraduate studies at Boise Bible College and pursuit of a Master’s in Christian Leadership from Liberty University. He’s excited to serve FCC’s unique community.

Married to Heather since 1994, the Sturgeons cherish their family of six sons, two daughters-in-law, and one grandson. They enjoy outdoor pursuits like camping, disc golf, and mountain biking, with Justin eager to try windsurfing on the Columbia River.

Mike Wilson - Associate Pastor

Mike has been on staff at First Christian Church in The Dalles since December 1, 1984. He has served as Youth Minister, Associate Minister and now as Lead Pastor as of August 2020. He loves being involved with people, sharing God’s Word, seeing people grow in their faith and equipping others to use their spiritual gifts in ministry for the building up of the Kingdom and reaching the community with the message of God’s great love.

Mike enjoys spending time with his wife Karen. They enjoy golfing, hiking, biking, traveling, playing board games, and doing spontaneous things that lead to adventure. Mike and Karen have five grown children and six grandchildren. Family activities keep them busy and there is never a dull moment when all the grandchildren get together.

Mike enjoys woodworking, being outside, hunting, fishing, riding his motorcycle…and firing up the barbeque!

Cheri Thomas - Office Manager

Cheri came to First Christian office in November 2007 after working as church office manager in several other churches around Oregon.

Cheri and her husband Dan were both born and raised in The Dalles and were high school sweethearts.
They have two adult children and 7 grandchildren to keep them busy. 

Tia Anderson - Nursery

Tia Anderson heads up our Nursery Ministry. She faithfully oversees infants and toddlers while parents attend Sunday School or worship service.

She makes sure every adult volunteer has been carefully background checked before they are allowed to be in the Nursery.