Thank you for visiting our website!
 
I have been serving First Evangelical Lutheran Church since June of 2011, following my ordination to the ministry of Word and Sacrament.  I am a native of Western Pennsylvania, growing up in the South Hills region and graduating from Bethel Park High School.  I am a graduate of Gettysburg Lutheran Seminary and Grove City College.  Prior to attending seminary, I worked as an assistant manager at Barnes and Noble Booksellers. 

As pastor, my goal is to help you discover the unconditional love of Jesus Christ and live a life of peace and purpose in relationship with him. I am called to be the public voice of the Gospel of Christ's death and resurrection, which frees you from sin and death and empowers you to make a difference difference in the world.

I am currently serving Dean of Conference 3 of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Lutheran Synod.  I also serve on the Armstrong LIFE Center Advisory Panel and the Bethesda Lutheran Services board of directors. Together with the pastors of the Leechburg Ministerial, I oversee the Leechburg Food Bank.

I also serve as pastor of Cross Roads Community Presbyterian Church in Leechburg.

In my spare time, I enjoy music, reading, woodworking, hiking, bicycling, and spending time with my family and friends.
 
I look forward to the opportunity to get to know you and your family.  I can be reached at the church office, 724-845-7518; or by email, pr.[email protected]. 
 
May the Lord bless you and keep you.

Rev. James V. Arter, III