Meet Our Staff

Senior Pastor

Rev. Paul Scaringi, Ph.D.

Paul is originally from Massachusetts. He previously served at Grace Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia and The United Protestant Church in Silver Bay, Minnesota. He earned his B.A. from the University of Sioux Falls, M.Div. from The Baptist Theological Seminary of Richmond, and Doctor of Philosophy from the University of St. Andrews, Scotland.

Outside of being a minister, he enjoys working on his photography, being outdoors, and time with Eileen, his wife.

Director of Music

Jean Graham

A graduate of Morningside University, Jean taught both music and special education in the public and private sectors. She began working at First Baptist Church in 1997 as a soloist and section leader. Previously she directed choirs at Park Avenue Presbyterian Church in Des Moines, Covenant Presbyterian Church in West Des Moines, and Rainbow Acres in Arizona.

Jean has sung in various auditioned choral groups and enjoys playing the saxophone for concerts and special occasions.

Organist

Becky Van Der Beek

Becky has been a church organist for over 30 years, with the last 5 years at First Baptist Church. She graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in Dental Hygiene. 

Becky and her husband Bruce have 2 daughters and 6 grandchildren.

Administrative Services Coordinator

Wendy Longden

Wendy has been with FBC for 13 years, starting with mother's hours as an administrative assistant, and moving to her current full-time position once her youngest child started high school.

Wendy is passionate about helping others and enjoys volunteering in the community. In her free time, she enjoys reading and spending time with family and friends. Wendy and her husband Eric have 4 children including a daughter in law, and a beautiful granddaughter.

Controller

Jim Usgaard

Jim has worked 9 years as a CPA working in tax. He was with Willis Automotive for 33 years, 12 years as their Controller and 21 years as COO. His hobbies include music of all kinds, biking, working out, reading and traveling. Jim is married to his lovely wife Becky Knutson.

Property Manager

Haitham Biden

Hi, my name is Haitham Biden! I proudly serve as the Property Manager of the First Baptist Church. I’m also a father to four amazing children and a husband to a wonderful wife. I’m truly grateful to be a part of the First Baptist Church community and to support its mission by helping with daily needs and keeping our church alive, safe, and thriving.