Amanda McElray Hunter is a visual artist, manages a local gallery and works with the local arts community in creating public art initiatives.  She graduated in 2010 from United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities with a masters degree in Theology and the Arts. In the past, Amanda has worked on staff for a 5,000 member church in Fort Lauderdale, FL, coordinated numerous multi-generational community art-making workshops for churches throughout the Twin Cities, and volunteered at Peace to create art with the children’s ministry.  She also volunteers at Peace as an OWL facilitator. Amanda is Mom to 13 year old Siggy and 10 year old Kieran and partner to Matt who works at United Way.

A true born Duluthian, I grew up in this neighborhood going to Grant Elementary School, I would go to 8th St. Video almost every weekend for an ice cream cone. I have known of the Peace Church and what it stands for and what it does for its community, and am so excited to be part of the team. I appreciate everyone’s patience during this time and I can’t wait to be able to help where I can.

Hello! I am here as Business Manager and am ready to jump in and help create this role. Professionally, I’ve worked as an office manager and assistant for two local companies over the last five years. I’m adaptable, as I’ve learned a lot of my skills on the job and have taken on many roles as needed. I hope to put my organizational and professional skills to good use here. I’m excited to become a member of the staff and help the church continue to grow. I grew up in Duluth and think it’s a great place to call home. I spend my free time enjoying nature by skiing, hiking, biking, and camping. I’m also an avid puzzler and gardener. I look forward to meeting you all soon!

I have known of Peace Church since I was involved in local peace and justice work 20+ years ago. Since then, I spent years living and working at a small Buddhist retreat center in the Southwest, where I became the bookkeeper. I went on to gain administrative and financial experience with several different nonprofits and small businesses. I met my spouse Katie in Tucson, where she was a steady part of border-justice work. We moved (back) to Duluth last summer to be closer to Midwestern family, and because she took a job with CHUM. We have enjoyed exploring the area, nature, and a multitude of festivals. This part-time role at Peace Church fits remarkably well with different pieces of my background and lifestyle. I look forward to learning about and supporting all the ways this community manifests!

Dan has been a member of the Peace Church staff since 2006, taking great care of our building. He is also a drummer, and fills in when needed in our worship services. He lives in Lakeside with his lovely wife Lisa and two boys, Jack and Parker. When he’s not working he enjoys taking the boys on adventures to the zoo, ice skating, riding bikes on Munger trail, and going to the family cabin exploring the woods for creatures.

I am a retired hospital chaplain, having served at St. Mary’s and Miller-Dwan Hospitals, with my final years working in the Pain Management Program. I love being a part of people’s journeys of healing and wellness, wholeness and hope. At Peace Church, in the past, Deb Cooper and I facilitated the Grief Support Group and then started the bereavement card ministry. You will see me in the choir loft during “normal” times, and in the Virtual Services for now. Because of COVID-19, my support for our Peace members is mainly through calls and emails and cards.

Mariah is a student at the University of Minnesota Duluth, studying social work. She is excited to support children and youth in their faith and fight for justice that needs to be sought after in today’s society. On her off time she enjoys spending time with her cat Luca, and with her friends, family, and boyfriend.