Rev. Joshua P. Kerr, Pastor

A proud Oklahoman, Josh Kerr grew up in East Tulsa and attended Yale Avenue Presbyterian Church. During his childhood and young adulthood, Josh saw Yale Avenue transition from a larger congregation with lots of programming to a much smaller family-oriented church. These experiences gave him an appreciation for smaller church ministry and a zeal for church innovation and growth.

After graduating from East Central High School, Josh began his ministry at Dwight Mission as a summer camp counselor. Over the years, Josh served at Dwight Mission in various roles, helping him hone leadership skills and develop an earnest love for serving others. It was also at Dwight Mission where Josh met his wife, Tara. Tara is originally from Owasso and serves as a school counselor in Claremore Public Schools.

When Josh felt called to pursue pastoral ministry, Josh and Tara moved with their newborn son, Kellan, to Austin, TX so Josh could begin studying at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. During his time in seminary, Josh took a special interest in worship and preaching, serving on the seminary’s Worship Committee, leading dozens of special worship services, and serving as a Research Assistant to Rev. Dr. Jennifer Lord, Professor of Homiletics and Liturgical Studies. At graduation, Josh received the Charles L. King Preaching Award and the Chalice Press Book Award.

During Josh’s second year of seminary, the family faced a significant crisis when Tara was diagnosed with breast cancer. Soon after diagnosis, Tara began chemo treatment, and later had major surgeries. During that experience, the community at Austin Seminary and throughout the church surrounded and supported the family in every way possible. It was a great example of the love, support, and compassion that should be prevalent in the church. Tara is many years cancer-free now, and the family is filled with gratitude for all the care they received during her treatment.

Following seminary, Josh served as Pastor and Head of Staff at First Presbyterian Church in Perry, OK. During that time, Josh and the church constructed and opened a brand-new church facility, grew its mission in the community, and welcomed new members. Josh served FPC Perry for five years before accepting a call to come to Claremore. Josh’s biggest hopes for FPC Claremore are to grow into a fully inclusive, mission and evangelism-focused congregation, declaring the Good News of Jesus Christ by word and deed.

 Education

Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Austin, Texas
Master of Divinity, 2014

Rogers State University, Claremore, OK
Bachelor of Science, 2010