About St. Peter's
St. Peter's was founded on July 2nd, 1876 by German settlers. It was the first organized Protestant church located in what would later become the city of Elmhurst. As a member of the Evangelical Synod, the founders of St. Peter's were a warm, inclusive, tolerant group stressing simply the preaching of the gospel (the evangel). In 1924, the original building was demolished and replaced with the sanctuary we use today. The church then added the education wing in 1962. Throughout decades of growth and change, the St. Peter's congregation continued its tradition of inclusivity, tolerance and determined independence.
St. Peter's is a proud member of the United Church of Christ. This historic denomination began with the Pilgrims seeking religious freedom (1620), stood against slavery, ordained the first African American Protestant Pastor (1785), ordained the first woman pastor (1853), ordained the first openly gay minister (1972), and today works for social justice for all people. No matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here. www.ucc.org
St. Peter's UCC is a longstanding education partner with Elmhurst University by providing scholarship and spiritual support for students.Through the people of St. Peter's, the church also provides leadership and mentoring for the university community. www.elmhurst.edu
Meet Our Staff
It is our mission to love God, nurture faith and share gifts.
Interim Senior Pastor
Rev. Timothy C. Rhodes
Tim is a dynamic leader and award winning preacher who will guide the congregation through a visioning process that will shape the future of the church and its ministries.
Associate Pastor
Rev. Amanda McEvilly
Amanda has served St. Peter’s since 2014. She enjoys exploring faith with the members of the congregation, especially the Confirmands and young people.
Music Director and Organist
Katherine Florian
Katherine joined St. Peter's staff in July of 2023. She is passionate about bringing people together to create beautiful music that enhances the worship experience.
Director of Children's Ministries and Children's Music
Jennifer Petkus
Jennifer has served St. Peter’s since 2008. She enjoys enriching the children’s lives with music and witnessing them share their joy and gifts with those around them.
Bookkeeper
Teresa Burns
Teresa joined the St. Peter’s staff in 2021 and has been a member since 2014.
Office Manager
Paul Whittenhall
Paul joined the St. Peter’s staff in October of 2023. He brings four years of experience as an office manager in a local UCC church and more than a decade of non-profit and customer service experience.
Caretaker
Terry Fanning
Terry joined the St. Peter’s staff in November of 2023. He brings experience in the trades, mechanical and custodial
knowledge and an eager spirit to his role.
St. Peter's Cemetery
St. Peter's established a cemetery in 1878 on Alexander Boulevard next to Elmhurst University. Please inquire with the office regarding burial plots.