JupiterFIRST Leadership
Pastor Chip Jurskis
CO-LEAD MINISTER
Chip Jurskis grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, and earned a B.A. in Religion from the University of Georgia. He continued his studies at Emmanuel Christian Seminary at Milligan, earning a Master of Arts in Religion.
After a summer in youth ministry, Chip returned to Atlanta, where he founded a campus ministry at Emory University, later transforming it into Bread Coffee House—a relational, service-driven outreach inspired by his love of local coffee houses and live music.
In 2012, Chip joined JupiterFIRST as the Minister of Family Life and was unanimously called to be Lead Minister in 2023. He and his wife, Amy, an educator, have been happily married since 1992 and are proud parents of their two adult children, Arden and Lily. He does not miss Atlanta traffic.
Pastoral Staff
David Cowen
WORSHIP MINISTER
David joined JupiterFIRST in 1995 from Orlando’s vibrant music scene—back when he had long hair! Now a seasoned minister, musician, writer, composer, and tech guru, he was ordained at JupiterFIRST in 2005.
His passion for worship is evident in every Sunday service and the unforgettable Christmas Eve productions he leads. The music ministry thrives thanks to his dedication and the talented JupiterFIRST Singers, some of whom have been with him for years.
David enjoys art, non-fiction, and good conversation. You might spot him biking or walking around town. He and his wife, Francie, have two adult daughters, Haley and Marin, and a high school son, Levi—keep them in your prayers!
Donna Totino
SENIOR MINISTRIES DIRECTOR
Donna, affectionately known as our ‘church lady,’ has been part of JupiterFIRST for over 25 years. She joined in 1993 and became a staff member in 1996 as a part-time assistant to the Executive Minister. She played a key role in launching Disciple classes, which she taught for many years.
In 2001, Donna found her true calling as Director of Senior Ministries, where her warmth and compassion make every senior feel welcome and valued.
Outside of church, she enjoys the beach, poker, and Mahjong—but her biggest joy is caring for her two granddaughters. She admits she’s “terrible with homework,” but proudly claims the title of “best Grandma ever.” Oh, and she secretly loves karaoke—just don’t let her know you know!
Marthe Hjortshoj
CHILDREN’S MINISTER
Marthe Hjortshoj (pronounced Mar-ta Yort-soy) has over 13 years of experience in children’s ministry. She earned her M.A. in Ministry, specializing in Children, Youth, and Family Ministry, from Wesley Seminary in 2022.
Since joining JupiterFIRST in 2018, Marthe has led kidsFIRST Children’s Ministries with a passion for helping kids love God, love people, and love God’s Word. She was ordained at JupiterFIRST in May 2024.
A Disney enthusiast, Marthe loves visiting Walt Disney World with her husband, Andy. They cheer for the Pittsburgh Steelers but remain divided on college football and MLB!
Sherlyn Burnham-Kuehn
YOUTH MINISTER
Sherlyn Burnham-Kuehn, our Youth Minister, was ordained at JupiterFIRST in May 2024 and joined the staff in 2021. A Tampa native, she holds a B.A. in English and an M.A. in Theology from Palm Beach Atlantic University.
Part of JupiterFIRST since 2016, Sherlyn has served in various ministries, including music, children’s programs, and momsFIRST. With over 20 years in student ministry, she is passionate about helping youth grow in faith.
She enjoys playing piano, reading, and walking her terrier mix, Celeste. Sherlyn and her husband, Henry, have two daughters, Lili and Helen.
Judy Harris
PRESCHOOL DIRECTOR
We are thrilled to welcome back Judy Harris as our JupiterFIRST Church Preschool Director! Originally from New Jersey, she moved to Florida in 1979 and joined JupiterFIRST in 1993, first as a Sunday School teacher and later as Director of Children’s Ministries. She also served as the church’s bookkeeper, expanding the Youth Ministry with programs like a 4th-5th grade group and Christmas pageants.
Judy met her husband, Mike, in a JupiterFIRST Disciple class, and they married in 2005 in our current Sanctuary. Together, they have four children and 11 grandchildren. Fun fact: Her 98-year-old mom, Bunty, joined the church two years ago and still attends when she can!
In 2007, Judy became Co-Director of the JupiterFIRST Preschool, discovering her passion for early childhood education. After years of teaching in Tequesta, she is excited to return to her home church. She holds Teacher and Advanced Director’s Certifications (FCCPC) and loves nurturing young children’s curiosity and growth.
Professional Staff
Michelle Premuto
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Michelle joined our church family and staff on November 1, 2021, after 36 years in Holiday, Florida. She holds a Business Administration degree from Stetson University with a focus on Finance and Accounting.
Her career spans the medical, legal, and nonprofit sectors, including roles as Controller, Director, and Senior Accountant. She later transitioned to church finance, serving at First United Methodist Church of Clearwater and Palm Harbor United Methodist Church.
Since 1995, Michelle has run Angel Tax Services, providing tax and bookkeeping services to small businesses and individuals. She also enjoys knitting, crocheting, and singing—talents we hope to see in action at JupiterFIRST!
Celso Contreras
DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY
Celso joined JupiterFIRST in September 2024 as Director of Technology, overseeing tech support for church services, events, and daily operations. A South Florida native from Hollywood, he moved to the Treasure Coast in 2023 but has visited the area for over 20 years.
He holds a B.A. in Broadcast Communication from Barry University and an M.A. in Communication from Queens University of Charlotte, where he earned Phi Kappa Phi honors. His career spans broadcasting, video production, content creation, and multimedia.
Outside of work, Celso enjoys time with his wife and dog, surfing, skateboarding, and making music.
Elena Jacobson
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
Elena Jacobson has been a neighbor of JupiterFIRST for nearly 20 years and is thrilled to step into her role as Director of Communications.
A 2015 graduate of the University of Central Florida with a B.F.A. in Emerging Media and a minor in Creative Writing, Elena has a diverse background in animation, casting, and TV production. She’s also passionate about helping small businesses grow their online presence.
Beyond work, Elena has a love for illustration, comics, DIY projects, and historical mysteries. A longtime martial artist, she also teaches women’s self-defense. She enjoys warm beverages, pastries, and the occasional spontaneous song.
Holly Brown
OFFICE MANAGER
Meet Holly Brown, who joined the JupiterFIRST team in December 2023. Originally from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, she spent 10 years in Connecticut before moving back to PA—so naturally, she’s a devoted Eagles fan!
In 2004, a cruise adventure led her to make a spontaneous move to Florida, choosing her new home by pointing to a spot on the map. Holly is a proud mother to three adult children—Aaron, William, and Cierra—and a loving grandmother to five. She has a passion for travel, having lived in Italy for two years, and enjoys reading, watching movies, and spending time on the water.
John Corsi
FACILITIES ASSOCIATE
John has been a dedicated member of the JupiterFIRST staff since 2016, ensuring the upkeep of our beautiful church building and campus—a responsibility that is no small task! From maintaining the grounds to overseeing the facilities, he plays a vital role in keeping everything running smoothly for our congregation.
Beyond his work at the church, John loves to cook! When he’s not busy with church duties or cooking up something in the kitchen, he enjoys spending time on the golf course, perfecting his swing.
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Stacey Caldera
Stacey joined the JupiterFIRST staff in December 2023. Originally from Long Island, NY, she moved to Jupiter in 2006 with her husband and two sons. Her youngest, now a college freshman, attended JupiterFIRST Preschool in 2008—making her connection to the church especially meaningful.
Stacey loves spending time with family and friends, traveling, and exploring the beautiful beaches of Jupiter. She is excited to be part of the church team and looks forward to contributing to the community she has called home for so many years.
Mary Griffith
BOOKKEEPER
Mary joined the JupiterFIRST staff in May 2023. A North Palm Beach native, she earned a Business Administration degree in Finance from FAU but is a “Nole” at heart—her husband, Ron, and their three adult children all attended FSU, and she even shares a birthday with legendary coach Bobby Bowden!
A longtime stay-at-home mom (a full-time job in itself), Mary also worked part-time over the years. Her twin sons, Kyle and Casey, attended JupiterFIRST Preschool from 1997-1999, and their daughter, Carly, arrived seven years later. She loves reading, college football, and cool weather—though she’s spent her whole life in South Florida (thank goodness for air conditioning!). She’s also known for her delicious homemade Caesar salad dressing!