Organist
Tom joined the staff of First Church as the organist and choir director in 1980. Currently, he provides organ music for 8:15 a.m. service on Sundays, and whenever else he's needed. He also accompanies the church’s Sounds of Worship Choir, and does preparation work for the Psalm 150 services on Sunday evenings.
Tom first felt called to Christ during a youth group meeting in his home church. His need to serve was realized through his music. “As a child, I was always in awe of the pipe organ in my home church and was told that, when my legs were long enough, I could start lessons (so I could reach the pedals),” Tom said. He started private lessons at the age of 16, and almost immediately was playing the organ and directing the choir for a small Methodist church in Media, Pa. He later studied organ at West Chester University.
Tom began his other career as an elementary and middle school teacher in the Penn-Delco School District, and later the Unionville-Chadds Ford School District. He then served as the Director of Curriculum & Instruction for the Carlisle Area School District. Later Tom worked for the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Chancellor’s Office of the State System of Higher Education in various education-related positions. He also was an adjunct faculty member for Penn State University’s Delaware County Campus, and Messiah and Gettysburg Colleges.
Tom has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from West Chester University, a master’s degree in reading education from the University of Delaware, and a doctorate in child development from Temple University.
Tom has been a member of First Church since 1979.
Tom and his wife, Jeanne, are parents to three adult children, Kristie, David, and the late Kenneth Mullikin. They have three grandchildren.
Tom’s Vision for the Music Ministry
Church music has seen a major change over that last 25 years, and the instruments used in the worship service also have changed. There is much more use of electronic instruments today. I believe church musicians need to keep abreast of these changes and learn how to use them effectively and incorporate them into their ministry. Music speaks to everyone spiritually, and in a variety of ways. It is important that the church maintain an active music program, making use of all the talent available to offer praise and worship.
