She replaces Alise Barrymore who in May assumed a new position as pastor of The Emmaus Community located in the southern suburbs of Chicago. Director and interim Dean of University Ministries Rich Johnson will continue to lead the University Ministries department during this time of transition.
Peterson, known by many as a speaker at Covenant events and university retreats, is a graduate of North Park University and North Park Theological Seminary and is an ordained minister in the Evangelical Covenant Church. Most recently, Peterson was a member of the teaching team for Main Stage during CHIC 2006 at Knoxville, Tennessee.
She is perhaps best known as the “walking pastor,” recalling her 1998-1999 walk across the United States, a 4,200-mile journey that serves as the foundation for much of what she preaches and teaches.
“We are excited to have Judy join the University Ministries team,” Johnson said. “I know her heart for students, her gifted preaching, and her love for Jesus are going to have a significant impact on this campus. As she becomes part of our community, I personally look forward to learning from her teaching and her life.”
In her new role, Peterson will work with University Ministries staff to oversee the chapel program, teach occasionally at the Sunday-night student worship times, and fulfill other pastoral responsibilities. This part-time role will allow her to continue teaching in other churches and venues.
“North Park University has had a significant impact upon my life and ministry,” Peterson says, “and I am overjoyed at the opportunity to give back some of what has been given to me. What a privilege it will be to join students and faculty as we seek together to understand what it is to walk out a radical journey with Jesus.”
To learn more about University Ministries and its programs, please visit University Ministries.
