New Minister of First Presbyterian Church of Philipstown Begins Sunday

The First Presbyterian Church of Philipstown is pleased to announce its new permanent pastor, Rev. Leslie Mott, who will begin Sept 19th with the 10:30 am Sunday service.

"She’s impressive in every aspect - preaching, spirituality, pastoral care, community service, compassion," said Rob Bissinger, a member of First Presbyterian Church of Philipstown’s pastoral nominating committee.

Rev. Mott succeeds Dr. Rev. William Doster who completed his two-year term as interim pastor while the church’s Pastoral Nominating Committee searched for a permanent pastor.

"We were so blessed to have such a wonderful interim pastor as Rev. Doster," said Anne Lawrence, clerk of session. "And blessed again to have such a wonderful permanent pastor as Rev. Mott."

Known for her dynamic preaching and social service background, Rev. Mott comes to First Presbyterian Church with an impressive background. She received her master of divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary and was awarded the Edward Howell Roberts Scholarship in Preaching and the Friars Club Prize for Service to the Community.

"I love this community," said Rev. Mott. "There’s a strong sense of compassion for others. I hope to contribute to that especially through our church’s strong dedication to serve others."

First Presbyterian Church of Philipstown’s outreach programs include: the only food pantry in western Putnam County; meals for Peekskill Area Pastors’ Association’s soup kitchen; a monthly Adult Caregiver’s Support Group; parish nurse service; healing services; the Women’s Group; the Men’s Group; participation in the Rural Migrant Ministries and Crop Walks; and the monthly Jazz Vespers.

Prior to joining First Presbyterian Church of Philipstown, Rev. Mott was chaplain at Wilson College in Chambersburg, PA; supply pastor at Logan Memorial Presbyterian Church in Audubon, NJ. Before receiving the "call" to be a minister, Rev. Mott worked for non-profit organizations.

Music is also an important part of Rev. Mott’s life. She plays the guitar and piano and has sung in jazz and country western bands.

Although she’s new to Cold Spring, her family is not. Her grandfather’s Aunt Bella Mott married Harry Starr and lived on Rock Street. During World War II, her grandparents, father and uncle were frequent visitors to Cold Spring. "I probably have second and third cousins in the area!" said Rev. Mott.

The First Presbyterian Church of Philipstown is located at 10 Academy St. in Cold Spring. For more information contact the First Presbyterian Church of Philipstown at 265-3220.