Hello! My name is Rachel First, and I am a second-year M.Div. student at Princeton Theological Seminary. I grew up in a military family, splitting my childhood between St. Louis, Missouri, and Santa Barbara, California, where my mom and dad dutifully wrangled my four siblings and me into the back of our silver 2000 Chrysler Town and Country for youth group, Sunday school, and worship. Both of my parents held leadership roles in the church, so I got to see their devotion to God and neighbor up close, not only on Sunday mornings but in the ordinary rhythms of the week.

Their example ultimately led me to study theology as an undergraduate in Chicago and to pursue ministry. Along the way, I have served as a teaching and research assistant, with interests in medieval and systematic theology in conversation with gender studies and religious language.

I am married to my best friend, Zach, with whom I share all things imaginative and curious, including our love of birds (we have two, Quill and Merlin!), video games, anime, and books. Zach is a nurse anesthesia resident at Rutgers University, so we spend plenty of time studying together and are always looking for new places to thrift or grab coffee.

This year I am especially excited to grow and serve alongside the people of St. Matthew's and share in life together. I look forward to meeting and getting to know you all!