Leadership

Pastors & Staff

John Patnode

Lead Pastor

Pastor John has been doing pastoral ministry vocationally since he was 20 years old. He holds a Masters of Theological Studies from Moody Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Science majoring in Youth Ministry and minoring in Pastoral Leadership and Christian Studies at Crown College. Originally growing up just 30 minutes west of the Twin Cities, Pastor John and Anna have 5 beautiful children together: Lydia, Caroline, Travis, Claire, and Oscar. Pastor John enjoys spending time with his family and doing many outdoor activities, music, sports, and just hanging out.

Ian Galligan

Worship Pastor

Ian is very passionate about biblical worship and loves being involved in the various ministries of PEFC. He was born and raised in Sauk Rapids, Minnesota and is a graduate of Crown College with a Bachelor’s degree in Worship Ministry and minors in Youth & Family Ministry and Christian Studies. He enjoys songwriting as well as honing his skills in guitar and piano. Ian and his wife, Emily, were married in June of 2020 and are thankful for the love they both share in Jesus. He loves exploring nature and all things outdoors, and can be caught watching and playing a variety of sports in his free time. Ian also loves hanging out and getting to know new people.

Emily Galligan

Children's Ministry Director

Emily followed God’s call to share the message of Christ as He led her to Crown College, where she graduated with Bachelor’s degrees in Discipleship Ministries and Christian Studies and a minor in Youth and Family Ministries. She is passionate about God’s design for discipleship in the family and loves to see children discover more about Jesus. Emily and her husband, Ian, are excited to be ministering at PEFC together. Emily loves spending time with family, exploring new places, music, and doing most everything with a good cup of coffee.

Caleb Almen

Youth Pastor

Caleb is a graduate of Crown College, where he majored in youth/social ministry and played on the football team. Caleb is the middle son of 3 and loves camping, hunting, and working on old vehicles in his grandfather’s shop. Caleb has been a chemical delivery representative for Reliable Plus Vehicle Wash, but felt his calling into youth ministry while still in High School. He is excited to be partnering with PEFC and advancing the Gospel in a local church setting.

Katie Schulte

Bookkeeper

Katie grew up attending PEFC before moving to St. Paul to attend Minneapolis Business College.  After graduating with a diploma as a legal secretary, she worked for a year as an assistant to the Minnesota Secretary of State.  She spent the next 13 years working as the Officials Coordinator for the Minnesota State High School League before deciding to stay home with her kids.  Katie started as the church bookkeeper in February 2021.  She lives in Zimmerman with her husband, Quentin, and sons,

Ashley Thompson

Custodian

Ashley started as the church custodian in November 2021. She lives in Milaca with her husband Brandon and their 4 children, their dog Bailey, and 3 cats; Angel, Flynnerd, & Lulu. Ashley loves spending time with her family. She enjoys attending Bible study, fishing, hiking, reading, and new experiences!