Like most churches, First Presbyterian Church of Avonmore, experienced loss during the pandemic. In addition to journeying through the many changes of the pandemic, the church was without a steady called pastor for approximately 2 years during it. This also was a measurable loss as well. Although in that time frame, the faithful and dedicated congregation with weekly pulpit supply kept the church alive.
Part-time Commissioned Pastor Lynn started in September 2023 and the church experienced yet another change.
So in the midst of these several changes, First Presbyterian continues to appreciate and build on their rich history and traditions, while moving forward and encountering new vision for the future. We ARE a work in progress and rely on the guidance of the Holy Spirit in serving Jesus Christ.
Meet our Staff
Pastor Lynn
Lynn Mance is the FPC of Avonmore part-time Commissioned Pastor. Pastor Lynn began her call at FPC in September 2023. Pastor Lynn graduated from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary in 2011. Before coming to FPC she was a Commissioned Pastor Presbytery-wide through the Redstone Presbytery as she served in many churches as a pulpit supply for 13 years and as a temporary pastor at Union Presbyterian Church. She retired in 2015 after working full-time for 30 years in the radiology department at Excela Health Latrobe Hospital. She lives in Delmont and is a long-time member of Delmont Presbyterian Church. Pastor Lynn looks forward to where God will lead our combined ministries.
Ava Culp
Ava Culp is our part-time organist. Ava is a member of Hebron Lutheran Church and serves as their Sunday organist at 10:00 and then comes to FPC for our 11:00 service. Ava is a gifted musician. In addition to the organ she also plays the piano, violin, guitar and harmonica. She served as our Site Supervisor for the 2024 Westmoreland Food Bank Summer Meal Program for the Avonmore children. Ava is a high school junior and an excellent student.
Sheryl Rupert
Sheryl Rupert is our part-time Secretary at FPC since 1998. Later in 2002 she was hired as the church treasurer. Beyond her official duties, Sheryl has participated iin all aspects of church life since joining in 1987. She has taught Sunday School, Vacation Bible School and was active in the Women’s Association in past years. In her free time, she can be found fishing, painting, sewing or gardening.
Lisa Slicker
Lisa Slicker is our part-time custodian since 1998. She says that cleaning makes her heart happy as she can serve God behind the scenes. But Lisa serves God well beyond cleaning. She was confirmed at FPC in 1981 and began teaching Sunday school in 1998 and still continues working in Christian Education. She has served as the Clerk of Session since 2009 and also as a member of session. Lisa also works at a preschool and in her free time she aspires to be the best dog mama to her two beloved dogs.
Meet our Session
Dan Magalich, Rocky Flick, Pat Zaranik, Myra Magalich, Roxie Johnson and Clerk of Session Lisa Slicker
Meet our Deacons
Beth Ann Rupert, Jim Davison, Kathy Frain, Tonilee Flick, Lisa Flick and Moderator Karen Magalich