Our staff guides, directs and supports our congregation in ministry, but the ministry of the church belongs to all of us.
MINISTER
The Reverend Charlotte Frantz has served as Pilgrim’s minister since 2002. She is a graduate of Eden Theological Seminary and has been a minister in the United Church of Christ for more than 25 years. Charlotte has served congregations in Indiana, Minnesota, Montana and Iowa. Prior to coming to Duluth, she lived and worked for ten years in the Twin Cities. pilgrimcf@msn.com
MUSIC STAFF
Dr. Jack Bowman is Pilgrim’s Director of Music Programs, which includes direction of the Pilgrim Choir, organist, and oversight of Pilgrim’s ministry of music. Jack is Dean of the School of Fine Arts at the University of Minnesota Duluth. He holds a BM degree from Ohio Weslyan University and a MM and DMA from the University of Michigan.
Velda Graham Bell is Pilgrim’s Associate Music Director and organist. She accompanies the Pilgrim Choir, provides service music, directs Pilgrim’s handbell and chime choirs. Velda received her BA from Concordia College, Moorhead, MN and a BM degree in organ performance from the University of Minnesota.
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Mary Sopoci is Pilgrim’s Business Manager. She is a graduate of the College of St. Scholastica, Duluth and has worked in church administration for more than 23 years. Mary is responsible for maintaining financial records for the church and works closely with the church treasurer and the trustees. Mary schedules use of the building. pilgrimms@msn.com
Jim Brower is Pilgrim’s Administrative Assistant and coordinates office services and serves as receptionist. Jim graduated with a BA degree in Archaeology from the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis and served as Assistant Archaeologist for the State of Minnesota. Before coming to Pilgrim, Jim served as Administrative Assistant at Oak Grove Presbyterian Church in Bloomington, MN. pilgrimdlh@msn.com
Gail Trowbridge is Christian Educator at Pilgrim. She is the coordinator and lead teacher of the Sunday School program for ages 4 through 4th grade, and is advisor to the Sunday School program for 5th through 8th graders. Gail holds a BA degree from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh in Journalism and has been a member of Pilgrim since 1995. gailwill@chartermi.net
Pilgrim also employs Christine Johnson, Nursery & Childcare Attendant.
STEPHEN MINISTERS
In addition to our professional staff, Stephen Ministers from our congregation are trained to offer a ministry of listening and encouragement for persons facing life transitions or crises. Stephen Ministers stay in touch with homebound members and make hospital calls upon request. Their volunteer work is an important adjunct to the care extended by the rest of the staff. To contact a Stephen Minister, please contact the Rev. Charlotte Frantz.
VOLUNTEERS
Pilgrim is a volunteer organization and most of the work carried out by the congregation is done by members who give of their time and energy. Some members serve in leadership capacities and most members are involved in some phase of the congregation’s ministry. A Church Council, made up of members elected by the congregation, oversees and coordinates the work of the church. The staff offers resources, guidance and support in planning and implementing the work of the church.