Pastor – Dana Opp
I am the Pastor of the Presbyterian Church of Portersville, PA. I was born in 1957 in Leesburg, FL. My father was a specialist in the US Army and my mother a Registered Nurse. My father was from Cleveland, OH and my mother from New Castle, PA and after my father retired from the Service, we lived between those two towns most of my young life. I became a believer in 1979 through the ministry of Coalition for Christian Outreach sponsored by First Presbyterian Church of Pittsburgh, PA (FPC). I joined FPC, volunteered with their Youth Group, became an officer in their Young Adults Group, met and married my wife Margie in 1983 and was called into ministry while a member. After graduating from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh with an Associate Degree in Visual Communications in 1978 and a BS in Graphic Design from LaRoche College in 1980, and working as an Advertising Manager of an industrial firm in Pittsburgh, I enrolled at Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary in Massachusetts in 1983. After graduating in 1987, I have served churches in Russellville, OH, Kittanning, PA and Freeport, PA. I have been at Portersville since 1997. Margie and I have two lovely adult daughters, Rachel Ann and Sarah Grace, and a fine son-in-law, Sarah’s husband Eric.
Youth Director – Matt Nichols
Assistant Youth Director – Lydia Lowery
Lydia is the Assistant Youth Director. She graduated from Portersville Christian School in 2020. She studied at Capernwray Hall in the United Kingdom and has an Associates Degree in Biblical Studies. She enjoys teaching as a substitute at PCS and coaching her junior high volleyball team. Her hobbies include reading, baking, and spending time with her three younger sisters. In her ministry she seeks to help youth grow and establish their faith in Christ by teaching them the Truth of God’s word and guiding them in His ways.
Music Director and Choir Director – Amy Nichols
I am the current Choir Director and Associate Music Director of the Presbyterian Church of Portersville. I have grown up in this church and have been an active member for many years. In addition to directing the choir, I am also the leader of our Worship Team and lead the music for our Junior Youth Group.
In 2003, I graduated from Grove City College with a Bachelor of Music degree in Music-Religion with a vocal concentration.
I currently reside in Grove City with my husband, Matt, and our four children. I am a stay-at-home mom and a private music teacher. I am also an active member of the Grove City Area Bach Society.
Music Director and Organist – Sandy Phillips
I enjoy working with the musicians at The Presbyterian Church of Portersville. The Lord has blessed the church with gifted musicians both vocal and instrumental. Our church enjoys a blended contemporary and traditional mix of music.
I graduated from Geneva College with a major in education and a minor in music. My music minor was accentuated by my enjoyment of playing instrumental music and the pipe organ. I went on to get a Masters Degree in reading from Slippery Rock University.
I am the organist at the church and accompanist for the choir. During the summer months the congregation enjoys a wide variety of special music presentations.
I’ve been married to my husband, Ralph, for 45 years, have three grown children and 11 grandchildren.