Meet the Youth Director

My name is Brittany Peterson. I had the privilege of growing up here in Elk Rapids, MI. I graduated from ER High School in 2003. I became a member of First Presbyterian Church while in High School and was actively involved in Youth Group. Under the leadership of my youth pastors (Scott Stephan and Dewayne Kirkman) I grew in my faith through solid teaching and hands-on ministry. In my senior year, I was able to serve as a Youth Leader for the Middle School group. During this time, I found God's calling on my life. After graduating, I went on to Emmanuel Bible College in Kitchener, Ontario. There I studied to be a youth pastor with the full support of FPC. In that time,I had the opportunity to be a youth leader every year and learn from hands-on ministry time. I graduated in 2008 with a Bachelor's of Theology in Youth Ministry and a Bachelor's of Religious Education in Counseling.

After spending the summer of 2007 serving as a missionary in Mexico, I felt God' strong urge to teach in an impoverished area. I was accepted into Teach For America and taught Kindergarten for three years in Bridgeport, CT.

My husband, Drew Peterson, attended the same college with me and also has a Bachelor's of Theology in Youth Ministry. We married in June 2008. We consider ourselves to be partner's in ministry and lead as such. Drew also grew up in Elk Rapids, and we are both overwhelmed with joy to have the opportunity to return home. God has placed such a clear plan for our lives, through building us up in our spiritual gifts and allowing us opportunities to use them!