Leadership & Staff

Pastor / Head of Staff

Jon grew up in Washington State and has served churches across the country. After studying religion in college, he began his ministry as a youth director at Highland Park Presbyterian Church in Dallas. Following nearly six years in Dallas, he attended Princeton Theological Seminary, where he earned a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in Christian Education. Jon then served for eight years as Associate Pastor of Discipleship at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Austin, Texas, before accepting the call in 2023 to become Pastor and Head of Staff at First Presbyterian Church of Lake Forest. Jon enjoys preaching, cultivating a vibrant community of faith, and helping people discover God's grace in the ordinary moments of everyday life.

He and his wife, Abby, have two sons, Thomas and Eliot. Outside the church, you'll often find him on a trail run, riding his bike, enjoying the outdoors, or cheering on Arsenal.

Jon leads the staff and works with the church Session to guide the church's mission and ministry.

Associate Pastor for Congregational Life

Anna sensed her call to ministry while studying psychology at Hope College. She got her Master of Divinity at Princeton Theological Seminary after which she worked in the Milwaukee area as a college chaplain at Carroll University and a pastoral staff member at Crossroads Presbyterian Church. Anna’s passion for ministry lies in offering compassionate pastoral care and teaching and leading others in contemplative spiritual practices.

In her spare time, you can find Anna exploring local trails and trying new restaurants with her husband, Thomas. She’d love to connect with you over a cup of Earl Grey Tea.

Anna focuses on pastoral care and spiritual formation, helping congregants deepen their faith through contemplative practice and community.

Associate Pastor for Ministries

Danny grew up on the other side of the lake in West Michigan and has served in youth, camp, and disability ministries in a variety of settings. His path into ministry has taken him from Durham, North Carolina, to Muscat, Oman, and eventually back to Holland, Michigan, for seminary.

Danny earned his Master of Divinity from Western Theological Seminary in 2024, then served as a two-year pastoral resident at Second Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis. He then joined First Presbyterian Church of Lake Forest.

Danny met his wife, Emily, in seminary, and they were married in April 2026. Outside the church, he enjoys listening to a good record, checking out a new coffee shop, learning a new sport or activity, and exploring creation with Emily. He’d love to get to know you over a cup of coffee or on a walk.

Danny focuses on ministries and faith formation for Kids, Youth, and Adults, helping make faith a central point at all stages of life.

Director of Business Operations

Frank leads the church’s business operations, overseeing finances, facilities, and personnel to ensure the church’s resources are stewarded wisely in support of its mission.

Director of Mission and Outreach

Garrett leads the church’s mission efforts and manages relationships with our nonprofit partners.

Executive Administrator

Karla provides executive support to the Pastor/Head of Staff and oversees key administrative functions, including Session support, membership records, and Church Center.

Director of Worship & Music

Robert leads the church’s worship life by planning services, directing choirs, and overseeing the music and liturgy that shape our worship together.

Ministry Coordinator

Sarah coordinates the details of ministry for pastors and directors, including congregational care, facility scheduling, weddings, funerals, and baptisms.

Associate Director of Worship & College Ministry

Emily helps shape and lead worship, coordinates liturgy and bulletins, and oversees our ministry with college students.

Singer / Songwriter in Residence

Daniel brings original music to the worship life of the church, leading and sharing music in worship each month.

Director of Children's Ministry

Rachel’s focus is on the children of the church and their families, including leading Children’s Church and other special events.

Preschool Director

Suzie leads the Preschool, overseeing its staff, curriculum, enrollment, and day-to-day operations.

Financial Accounting Manager

Patrick oversees the church’s accounting, payroll, accounts payable, grant administration, and annual audit preparation.

Financial Associate

Lenka manages the church’s day-to-day financial activities, including contributions, payments, deposits, and financial reporting.

Facilities Manager

Tom oversees the church’s facilities, grounds, and day-to-day campus operations.

Facilities Maintenance Supervisor

Jim manages the maintenance and repair of the church’s buildings and grounds.

Facility Steward

Noah supports the care, upkeep, and readiness of the church’s facilities.

AV Support & Production Leader

Rick manages audio and video production for worship and other church events, including livestreaming and AV equipment.

Director of Communications

Paul leads the church’s communications and visual identity, overseeing the website, e-newsletter, social media, printed materials, photography, video, and other communications.