Meet Karen Roberts, Director of Traditional Worship!

Tell us about your family.

My husband, Steve, and I have been married for 26 years. Steve recently retired from Director of Bands at Ann Arbor Huron High School -- a Grammy award winning music program. He’s a trombonist, and will sing tenor in our First Pres choir. Our daughter, Caroline, 22, graduated this year from Oakland University with a degree in Voice Performance, and a Pre-Med concentration. She is residing in MI, working full time as a Medical Assistant, while applying for medical school. Our youngest, Julianne, 20, is taking a gap year (or maybe semester) from Elon University, where she’s majoring in Musical Theatre. Julianne is with us, in Orlando, and currently looking for employment.

Where are you from?  

I was born in Livonia, MI, with my older sister and brother. My husband and I lived and established our family in Brighton, MI, over the past twenty five years. I was raised in the Lutheran denomination, and my husband, Methodist. Together, we made Cornerstone EPC our church home, and were very blessed to raise our children there. 

Tell us a little about your education and past experience?   

I attended the University of Michigan, earning a Bachelors of Music in Voice Performance. I later received my Masters of Music in Voice Performance from University of Maryland. My career over the last twenty five years has been primarily as a professional soloist (opera, oratorio and church music) and private voice instructor. Choral conducting has always been a love of mine. In addition to teaching, I volunteered in church as a choir director and worship leader. Six years ago, I accepted my first "job" as a choral conductor, as the director of the Livingston County Women's Chorus, and loved it. When the Director of Worship position opened at First Presbyterian church in Brighton, MI, during my youngest's senior year of high school, I felt the timing was right to take on full time ministry. What a blessing it was! The Lord used that job to prepare me for FPCO.

What are your favorite things to do in your spare time?  

I love spending time with family and friends. My favorite pastime is planning, preparing for, and hosting intimate gatherings with those near and dear. The fellowship and foods shared bring great joy! I also appreciate long, reflective walks to renew and refresh.

How did you come to Christ?  

I was raised in the church, and don’t ever remember a time when I didn’t know the Lord. Hallelujah! 

How did your ministry in the church begin?  

I’ve been blessed with a lifetime of singing in choirs and as a soloist. My ministry began as a volunteer singer, worship leader and choir director. I took a leap of faith into full-time ministry as Director of Worship and Music at First Presbyterian of Brighton in 2018.

Dogs or Cats? 

I have a wonderfully sweet, nearly 13 year old, golden retriever, Sierra.  

What is your philosophy of worship for First Pres?  

I am thrilled to be part of the First Pres Family, eager to take part in the sacred liturgy of generations. I aim to create Spirit-filled worship experiences that magnify the proclaimed Word, glorify the Father and put Christ at the center. I hope to facilitate authentic worship by inviting our musicians (choir, instrumentalists) to lead and engage our congregation in singing praise to our Lord!