Meet our beloved pastor, Rev. Kathlyn Ruth Nealand, a guiding light at the First Presbyterian Church of Mount Clemens. Hailing from the bustling regions of New York City and Long Island, Pastor Kathy embarked on a remarkable journey that saw her transition from a dedicated civil servant with the Department of Navy and a committed worker in the banking sector to a passionate educator. Her academic pursuits led her to achieve a bachelor’s degree in Elementary/Special Education, followed by a profound spiritual calling that culminated in a Master of Divinity from New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Jersey.

Ordained in the Presbytery of Long Island on October 9, 2005, Pastor Kathy has lovingly served congregations across Long Island and Staten Island, bringing her unique blend of compassion, wisdom, and leadership to each community. In 2017, she and her husband, John, were called to West Michigan, where she served the First Presbyterian Church of Allegan before accepting the call to our church in 2022, under the Presbytery of Detroit.

Married to John since 1988, Pastor Kathy's family includes two sons from a previous marriage and a cherished grandson, aged seven. The Nealand household is also home to two small rescue dogs, Ellie and Buffy, bringing joy and companionship to their lives. John, a Real Estate Appraiser with a passion for golf, shares Kathy's love for travel, especially cruising, which they both treasure as a way to explore the world.

Pastor Kathy's heart lies in teaching and pastoral care, driven by a deep love for reading, music, and most importantly, fostering spiritual growth within her community. Her arrival in Mount Clemens was a divine appointment, marked by an immediate connection with the congregation's warmth, openness, and eagerness to follow the Holy Spirit's guidance. She is continually inspired by the congregation's dedication to serving the Lord with all their heart, mind, body, and soul, and their boundless generosity.

In Pastor Kathy's own words, "I look forward to the opportunity to assist you in your faith journey." Her leadership is a beacon of hope and spiritual nourishment, inviting all to experience the love and grace of God at the First Presbyterian Church of Mount Clemens.

I thank God for you,

Pastor Kathy Nealand