Presbyterian Church of Palatine welcomes new pastor

The Presbyterian Church of Palatine has welcomed the Rev. Teri Peterson as pastor/head of staff. Peterson assumed this ministry in January.

Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Peterson holds a bachelor of music degree in clarinet performance from DePaul University and a master of divinity from Columbia Theological Seminary. She has previously worked with the Iona Community in Scotland and as a young adult volunteer in Cairo, Egypt.

Peterson comes to PCOP with six years experience as associate pastor at the Ridgefield-Crystal Lake Presbyterian Church where she also acted as primary staff leader during a pastoral transition.

In addition to leadership experience, Peterson has a passion for mission in the community and excels in finding creative ways to bring lives closer to God. Peterson is also an accomplished writer; her first co-authored book is due out in September.

Under the mindful leadership of Peterson, PCOP hopes to continue its mission in the community of “Growing in Christ, Celebrating God, and Extending the Spirit.” The congregation will continue to serve the community in a variety of ways, including hosting PADS guests weekly and tending a community garden, the produce of which is donated to the Palatine Food Pantry.

From 3-5:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 13, there will be a “Meet and Greet” event at Durty Nellie’s in Palatine. All Palatine and surrounding community residents are welcome to join and meet Peterson as well as learn more about PCOP.

PCOP is a mid-sized congregation, established in 1959. Worship services are held weekly at 10 a.m. on Sundays. The church office is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday. Visit the church’s website at www.pcop.us for information.