First Congregational Church

Staff

Pastor

Rev. Suzy Aja Burba graduated from Andover Newton Theological School in 2018 with a Masters of Divinity and a Certificate in Pastoral Care. Her primary ministry passions include preaching and pastoral care. A native of Plymouth, MA, Rev. Suzy has spent the majority of her life on the South Shore of Massachusetts.

Prior to going into ministry, Rev. Suzy primarily worked in the mental health field, as well as doing hospital work, and tutoring in the science department at Massasoit Community College.

Outside of ministry, Rev. Suzy enjoys spending time in nature, working with animals, and various creative activities. She is a hiker and has volunteered with Trustees of Reservations. While she loves the Trustees, her primary volunteer work was with a cat rescue where she provided care for foster animals, functioned as one of the rescue photographers, and assisted with fundraising events. In terms of her creative endeavors, Rev. Suzy has done stained glass, wood carving, drawing, jewelry making, lampworking (making glass beads), and knitting.

Other passions include spending time with family, providing a great, happy, healthy life for her three cats, and simply loving the people whom she serves. It is with great excitement that Rev. Suzy has come to North Adams where she is enjoying the church, the community, and the beauty of the Berkshires.

Director of Music

Charles Tsui serves as the Director of Music at First Congregational Church of North Adams, following the retirement of longtime director Michael Daunis. Charles is a classically trained pianist with a Doctor of Musical Arts degree and an active career as a performer, educator, and collaborative artist in the Berkshires.

He has taught and performed throughout New England and the Midwest, including work as a collaborative pianist at Williams College, chamber music coach, accompanist, and educator in public school and community music programs. His experience spans early instrumental instruction through college-level performers, and he enjoys helping musicians of all ages grow in confidence and expression.

In addition to his role at FCCNA, Charles maintains a private piano studio, collaborates frequently with local instrumentalists and vocalists, and performs regularly in solo and chamber settings. His musical background supports a wide range of styles in worship, blending classical repertoire, hymn traditions, and contemporary selections that connect with the weekly message and the seasons of the church year.

At FCCNA, Charles directs the Sanctuary Choir, a dedicated group of singers who rehearse weekly and lead worship through choral anthems, hymn singing, and seasonal music. He also programs vocal and instrumental soloists and works with the church’s organ and Yamaha grand piano to support and enrich the congregation’s worship experience.

Charles is grateful to serve the FCCNA community and looks forward to continuing a strong tradition of meaningful music in worship.

For more information about Charles and his work, please visit https://sites.google.com/view/expno/about-me

Office Administrator

Sexton