Our Team
Lew Upchurch
Pastor
After serving congregations in Wake Forest, NC and Costa Mesa, CA, Lew Upchurch accepted the call to Pilgrim Lutheran Church in March 2026.
“It is an honor to serve the people of this beautiful community. I am married to Lisa and we have five children and one grandchild. After spending many years in medical and pharmaceutical sales, I was ordained through Concordia Seminary St. Louis in 2013. I am truly humbled to serve our Lord Jesus Christ as a Pastor in His Church.
I enjoy spending time outdoors, especially hiking and biking. I love the beach and cooking for my family. My favorite passage is Galatians 2:20.
As I settle in at Pilgrim, it would be wonderful to visit with you. If you are interested in visiting, whether it be at your home, at the church or even for coffee or lunch, please let me know. To set up an appointment, please email me.”
Mathew Mulligan
Office Manager
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. On top of serving as Office Manager, 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.
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.
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.”