It seems a little strange to be writing an introduction to you all but as we haven’t been able to gather in person for over 10 months it is time to be reacquainted. Hi, I’m Peter, father to 2 adult children (Lauren and Justin), grandfather to 1 toddler (Ellie), husband to Anne (30 years) and I have been a COGS parishioner for 26 years. In that time I’ve worn many hats including lector, finance committee, preschool liaison, legacy, search committee (2x), stewardship, vestry (2x), folk band and choir. The list continues as now I have said yes to Pastor Linda’s invitation to serve once again on your Vestry.

The life of the church looks different today, but I’m uplifted to see the ways we have responded to the growing needs and challenges in this community. From online worship, prayer and music, continuing outreach and pastoral care, connecting others who are coping with fear and isolation, we have found new ways to be a church. I’m excited to share in the work before us. I look forward to our safely emerging from this pandemic, the chance to gather again and to be reacquainted with each other in worship and community events.

I grew up in the L.A. Basin and graduated from Pomona College in Claremont. I worked at the LA Olympic Organizing Committee, and then spent 15 years at Pacific Bell/SBC, leaving as a Statewide Sales VP. Subsequently, my consulting business took me around the nation and to Korea for 6 months. After 3 years in sales management for a seed company, I took on the leadership of Rancho Cielo Youth Campus in Salinas, where I have been since 2009. Stan works in I.T. for the Monterey County Behavioral Health Department. We live in Corral de Tierra with Sir Charles McSillyFace, a large, bossy, orange tabby.

Stan and I have been COGS members since Advent 1997. This will be my first time serving on the vestry – although I have led 3 retreats for prior vestries; I chaired the vestry nominating committee during Fr. James’ tenure; and Stanley served as Senior Warden for Rev Patti Barrett. I co-chaired the Search Committee when the parish called Rev. Patti. I’ve served on the Capital campaign committee, Chaired a Mutual Ministry Review, Worship Planning, and curated the Art Show for 7 years. Stan and I BBQ as a fundraiser in the summer. We particularly enjoy the annual Big Sur camping trip. Our 23 yr-old son Jack grew up in the parish and was baptized and confirmed at COGS. My primary ministry at the church is the music program.

I look forward to gathering again once it is safe. Safety must be paramount. Now is not the time to let down our guard, not after we have worked so hard sheltering in place for the last 10 months!

I moved to the Central Coast from the Central Valley about 13 years ago. My husband and I have twin 13 year old daughters who keep us on our toes. I consider parenting a great responsibility as well as an incredible blessing. Outside of parenting and volunteering I teach various science courses at CSU, Monterey Bay. Something that has drawn me to Church of the Good Shepherd is the welcoming community. I hope we continue to be servants of our community and leaders in how Christ would want us to treat each other.