About
SENIOR PASTOR
Rev. Susan Payne
Rev. Susan Payne was called to First Christian Church of Broken Arrow in June 2025 as their Transitional Senior Minister. A fifth-generation Disciple, Susan’s passion is sharing the message of God’s unbounded love and grace, encouraging congregations to live into the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) vision to be “a movement for wholeness in a fragmented world.”
Her great joy in ministry comes from forming deep connections with people who are committed to growing their faith and actively putting that faith to work in their community and world. In addition to ministering through preaching, teaching, and pastoral care, Susan encourages congregational leaders to embrace the potential for growth and creativity present in any transition time.
Tulsa is home for Susan and her husband Chris, but Susan has been called to settled and transitional ministries in six Oklahoma congregations (Enid Central, Bartlesville FCC, Tulsa FCC, Ponca City Community, Prague FCC, and now Broken Arrow FCC) and one Texas congregation (Abilene FCC).
Susan grew up in Twin Falls, Idaho, moving to Oklahoma to attend Phillips University in Enid where she studied English. She also holds an M.A. in journalism/mass communication from the University of Oklahoma and worked in public relations in the nonprofit and insurance sectors prior to her call to ministry.
Ordained and with standing in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Susan has an M.Div. degree from Phillips Theological Seminary. She holds certification in Transitional Ministry from the Interim Ministry Network.
Susan and Chris have three adult daughters - Kelsey (Chris) Gilbert – Tulsa; Caitlin (Josh) Raya – Florida; and Gillian Payne - Kansas City, MO. She is “Mimi” to six grandchildren, soon to be seven. Susan and Chris share their home with three rescue cats (a Maine Coon mix, a Siamese-Manx mix, and a black and white Cow Cat).
We believe in the transformative power of the gospel and the potential of every individual to embrace their faith, define their future, and positively impact the world.
OUR MISSION
As a growing part of the body of Christ, First Christian Church of Broken Arrow strives to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with all people and to be a community of faith nurturing spiritual growth through worship, study, fellowship, and service.
OUR VISION
Our vision is to be a welcoming and inclusive church, where individuals from all walks of life can find a home to grow in their faith, build meaningful connections, and make a difference in the world.
Meet the Team
We could not do what we do without our wonderful volunteers. We also have a top-notch staff that keeps things running smoothly day in and day out. Look for these smiling faces when you visit us.
