Leadership

Pastor & Staff

Rev. Carl Peterson

Senior Pastor

Pastor Carl is a second-career pastor, graduating from Asbury Theological Seminary in 2015 with a Master of Divinity degree. He has served churches in Douglas, Huachuca City, Payson, and Lake Havasu City before being appointed to Sierra Vista United Methodist Church in July 2020. He and his family have had a house in Sierra Vista since 1993 and he worked in information systems engineering management and business development before entering into vocational ministry. He is married to Bonnie and they have three adult children: Joshua, Victoria, and Heather.

Rev.Kayla Johnson


Associate Pastor
Director, Christian Education

Rev. Kayla  is a Provisional Deacon and serves as our church's Associate Pastor. She has a bachelor of science in psychology and a Master of Divinity degree. She serves as the Director of the Village Christian Preschool and the Director of Christian Education for the church. She is married to Brent and they have a son, Parker, who was born in 2021.

Carl Coss

Music Director

Carl has served as the Music Director for 35 years. He leads our choir and our praise band. He also participates in community chorales and vocal ensembles.

Kayla Empey

Office Manager

Kayla is a native of the culturally-diverse city of Utica, NY, with several years of clerical experience, in both church and municipal offices. Kayla combines warmth and professionalism in her approach to SVUMC's members and visitors alike, ensuring that everyone feels welcome. In her spare time, Kayla enjoys studying history, reading English literature, going on nature walks, and watching British dramas with her Mom. Feel free to stop by the office and say hello!

Carol Day

Bookkeeper

I am an Arizona native. While growing up I couldn't wait to leave. Now that the growth Is long since accomplished I have realized this is where I really want to be. Also long-time retired, I found myself looking for a new purpose. Thankfully, for me, SVUMC agreed to be that purpose. My exercise and therapy are both accomplished through the hours spent working my backyard.