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CHURCH  VISION STATEMENT

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Presenting opportunities for every person to encounter Jesus Christ through

prayer, spirituality, Bible study, Christian education, mission and participation.

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First Presbyterian is truly powered by the people. We have a dedicated team of deacons and

a strong church council called the Session. Each member is committed to making 

worship and ministry as meaningful as possible. 

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Pastor Michael Ozaki arrived in Crookston in September of 2021 along with his wife Brianna and three children Elle (8), Emery (6) and Miles (1). A shared pastor with Trinity Lutheran Church, when he is not looking for new ways to love God's people and be church beyond our walls, you might find him spending time with family, riding a longboard or playing the drums poorly but with high enthusiasm. 

 

After high school Pastor Mike worked for 3+ years in mercy missions in India, Thailand, and South Africa focusing on HIV/AIDS affected children and families. He then returned to earn a Bachelors in Sociology from Eastern University while running a youth service experiences as part of Broad Street Ministry in Philadelphia. In 2012 he simultaneously attended Princeton Theological Seminary and Rutgers University to earn a Masters of Divinity and Masters of Social Work. Expecting to become a social worker with a passion for helping churches do better justice and care work, he felt an irresistible pull to ordained ministry instead. 

 

Having ministered in RCA (Reformed Church of America), ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church USA) congregations across traditions, he is excited to see where the ever expanding and endlessly creative work of the Spirit will take us next, together. 

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Tonyia Phillips is our Administrative Assistant.   Tonyia arrived in Crookston with her family in June, 2018, and absolutely loves the area and all the friendly people!  She manages the office by taking care of the finances, bulletins, newsletters, and anything else that the staff and congregation may need. Her office hours are

Monday through Thursday 9-2 pm. 

Tonyia has her own special southern hospitality that she enjoys sharing with others.

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Sandy Perkins is our Music Director.  She loves music and is a welcoming presence to all.  

If you have any interest in singing or playing instruments of any sort, she would love to hear from you.  

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