Mary Jane Heuer joined the staff of First Christian Church in June 1998, as Director of Ministries to Children and Youth. She has a sound record of faithful service in youth and children's ministry as well as other areas of Christian education. She began working with youth in 1971 as a volunteer. In 1983 she accepted her first paid position as a youth director. Before coming to First Christian Church, Mary Jane served on the staffs of United Methodist congregations in Cookeville and Tullahoma, Tennessee. She also has been a retreat leader and organizer for children's activities. She has an avid interest in outdoor ministries of various kinds and enjoys introducing children and youth to the joys of hiking, camping, rafting, and other activities.

Mary Jane was born in Annapolis, Maryland and she is a licensed dental hygienist. She works part-time at First Christian Church and part-time in the dental practice of Dr. John Petty in Tullahoma. She has a degree in health education and has earned certification in both youth ministry and Christian education from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. Mary Jane maintains her certification through annual continuing education.

Mary Jane's relationship with Jesus Christ is evident in her enthusiasm for helping children and youth come to know him better and serve him more fully. Parents and grandparents can confidently expect that First Christian Church's ministry to children and youth will point them toward Christ and the joy of living as his disciples.