Rev. Michael J. Imperiale is 54 years old and came to us in May 2001 after 12 years of ministry at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Cinnaminson, New Jersey. Prior to that, Mike served for 5 years as an Associate Pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Greenlawn, Long Island. He has also served churches in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania.
Mike grew up in northern New Jersey and has a large extended family on the East Coast. He married his wife, Dottie, 27 years ago and they have three
children; Michael (23), Lisa (20), and Sarah (17). Dottie works full-time as a social worker and has continued her work in Salt Lake City in her own private counseling practice. Young Michael is an avid rock climber and skier; Lisa is interested in theater and studio art; and Sarah loves sports and music.
Mike is a graduate of Westminster Choir College in Princeton, NJ (Bachelor of Music) and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in South Hamilton, MA (Master of Divinity). In 2005 he completed the Doctor of Ministry program at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, CA. Mike's dissertation topic was "Fostering Renewal in PCUSA Congregations."
Pastor Mike is a man who brings multiple talents to his ministry. He is an excellent preacher who communicates very clearly and brings out a new meaning in each message that relates to our present-day struggles. Mike is a successful, organized, and experienced pastor who understands how to move a church forward and has a track record to prove it. He has a gentle and persuasive administrative style, but is also confident in himself, clear as to his purpose, and fully capable of being firm when the occasion demands it. Mike is an accomplished musician -- both as a singer and a guitarist.
Most importantly, Mike is a devout Christian whose strong faith guides both his professional and personal life. Mike leads and inspires by his example as much as by his teaching.
Finally, Mike is excited about Salt Lake City. He is in the prime of his career, full of energy, and sees First Presbyterian Church as an exciting opportunity to continue and expand Christian ministry.
Mike and Dottie enjoy sharing their lives with us at First Presbyterian.
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