OUR STAFF


  • JAMES KINZLER

    Lead Pastor

    A graduate of Point Loma Nazarene University and Nazarene Theological Seminary, James is excited to be back in San Diego as pastor of SDFC. Born in Southern California, and raised in Idaho and the Northern California Bay Area, James served one church in Santa Barbara for 27 years before coming to join the team at First Church. James and his wife Kyla have been married for 31 years and have two kids, Cady (23) and Thomas (21). Wherever they find themselves, the Kinzlers love, and live, to help foster a sense of community in which all sorts of people can find connection both with Jesus and with one another.

  • KASSY FITZPATRICK
    associate Pastor of Worship arts and Student ministry

    Kassy graduated from Point Loma Nazarene University in 2021 with a BA in Christian Studies. After spending three years serving in Santa Barbara, Kassy returned to San Diego in August to serve as the Associate Pastor of Youth and Worship Arts here at First Church. With a heart for walking with people in their faith journeys and cultivating meaningful worship experiences, Kassy is excited to be a part of the team here at SDFC!

  • RYANNA MARSH
    Children's ministry coordinator & facilities scheduler

    Ryanna Marsh hails from the exciting hometown of Porterville, CA. After graduating from Vanguard University in 2015 with a degree in Musical Theater, she moved to Texas to Stage Manage at SeaWorld San Antonio and now brings her creative and organizational skills to SDFC in Children's Programming and Facility Scheduling. In her free time, she enjoys long walks, crafting, & reading!

  • HEATHER HILLS
    Bookkeeper

    Heather has worked as SDFC's bookkeeper since 2008. She also coordinates weddings and helps with memorial services. Heather met her husband, Rich, at PLNU right before graduation. Together they have three grown children and have added two wonderful kids-in-law.