Our Team

John Pinero

Church Council President

John Pinero serves the Lord as President and Elder for Pilgrim Church. New to Pilgrim, Santa Monica, and to ministry work in general, John seeks to put Jesus first, Who calls us to Himself to enter through the narrow gate. John would like to welcome everyone to Pilgrim to do the same.

Joseph Perling

Head Elder

Joseph joyfully serves the Lord as Head Elder for Pilgrim Church since 2023. Joseph felt called to ministry to bring the love of Jesus to the people of today’s modern world. Especially those who feel disconnected from the Lord in our always-on connected but chaotic society.

Romans 8:28

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Mary Harper

Music Ministry

The music ministry at Pilgrim has been a labor of love for Mary for many years. She loves collaborating with other musicians and ministry leaders to create a meaningful worship service for the people. When not at Pilgrim, Mary works as a music teacher, lesson instructor and freelance musician.

Mathew Mulligan

Media Ministry

Mathew is a native of Santa Monica, having attended both Pilgrim Lutheran Elementary School and Pilgrim Church. He has a heart to serve, and loves that he can do that with other brothers and sisters in Christ. He is currently a part of the praise team, overseeing the sound and video booth at church services, and shaping our media usage and outreach to better our presentation of the truth of Christ and the freedom He brings. At home, Mathew plays guitar, writes songs, and loves woodworking. His favorite passage is Matthew 12:20-21.