Canfield Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

Rev. Ben Secaur grew up in Kent, Ohio in a family of four, all of whom were very active in their home congregation, First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). After graduating from Kent State University, he attended Lexington Theological Seminary in Kentucky where he met his wife, Kristin Wickless from Jacksonville, Florida. The two married and lived in Central Kentucky for about ten years, raising two daughters, Samantha and Lilac.

Ben served as Student Pastor to Old Grassy Christian Church (DoC) while in seminary honing his preaching skills and developing a love for pastoral care. After graduation and ordination he enjoyed a full time pastorate at North Middletown Christian Church (DoC) for four years before taking an opportunity to serve together with his wife as Co-Pastors of Campbellsburg Christian Church (DoC).

About four years later, the couple took a break from active ministry to better attend the changing needs of their family and instead enjoyed a life of voluntary simplicity on their five-acre homestead. Ben and his family moved back to his hometown of Kent in 2013 to be closer to family and to allow Kristin to return to school for a nursing degree. In addition to his pastoral duties, Ben is a bus driver for Kent City Schools. He very much enjoys pastoral ministry with our congregation.

Working for the church is a unique opportunity for Joann. She's has gotten to know and work with so many good people. It has also given her a chance to interact with the community and offer help in different ways!

Music Director Sally Appel Ifill has a lifetime experience in Canfield, at Canfield Christian, and in musical performance, teaching and direction.

Following  an early interest in musical theatre, she earned a BFA in Theatre at Kent State University, and continued that interest in New York City and Los Angeles before returning to the area. She later earned her teaching credentials and Masters degree in teaching the gifted and talented, at Youngstown State University. She taught for 26 years until her recent retirement. She and her husband Steve have been married for 40 years and have two daughters.

She appreciates the many friends and extended “family” she has made through her continuing service as Canfield Christian's Music Director.