First Presbyterian Church

I've been  privileged to be in parish ministry  for 30 years (nine years in Santa Cruz, fifteen years in Sacramento, seven  years in Santa Barbara). Being part of the faith journeys of  wonderful  people--new believers and life-long Christians, seniors and youth, men and women of every age and description--is a blessing to me.  The diversity of folks helps make  this church the living body of Christ , vital and ready for ministry in the community and the world. I am privileged to serve  First Presbyterian Church of Santa Barbara and am grateful to be working with my colleague, Judith Muller, with this great church staff and these devoted leaders. This is a congregation which loves to worship God and serve Jesus Christ. I appreciate the rich history and warm hospitality of the faith community at First Presbyterian.

On the personal side, I'm a product of the East coast (New York especially). I was educated at Amherst College (Massachusetts) and Union Seminary (New York). I had a brief stint as an elementary school teacher in New Hampshire after college and before seminary, until my students "drove me into the ministry," as they put it. (Between the two professions, teaching and parish ministry, I currently have the easier one!)

I am grateful to be married to my wife, Kati, and am proud to be the father of two sons, now living in Fresno and Sacramento, respectively, one of whom recently celebrated his first year of marriage. I love cooking and gardening and can often be spotted on the exercise machines at the YMCA. If you're ever there, I'm the one looking exhausted.

Do come by the church. I'd love to meet you and give you a tour.

Blessings,
Peter