Rev. Philomena Hare
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Someone with a pastor’s heart is the image that comes to mind when I think about my friend and colleague Peter Johnston. I have known Peter for more than six years. We first met at Boston University School of Theology when he was beginning his first year of seminary studies and I was in my final year.
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Thanks to the timing of our overlapping academic program I was able to witness first-hand Peter’s intellectual abilities and his deep rejoicing love of all God’s children. Even as a seminarian, it was clear to me and his colleagues that the depth of his spiritual development and gifts to pastoral ministry were extraordinary.
Sometime later, I reconnected with Peter at New England Baptist Hospital when he was a chaplain intern in training to improve his pastoral skills. Once again, Peter demonstrated strong empathic skills by providing compassionate pastoral care often in stressful and unpredictable settings. No one is better at encouraging and empowering people as they examine their current life circumstances.
Throughout his internship, I was particularly impressed with Peter’s ability to manage conflict within the group with grace and presence. He never harbored negative feelings nor was he ever drawn into unnecessary controversy. Even in tense situations, Peter always managed to put everyone at ease with his sense of humor and his ability to look beyond the conflict. These skills often take years of experience and maturity to develop, but it seemed to come naturally to Peter.
I count it a blessing to write on behalf of Peter Johnston. I know that Peter will bring the holy work of presence to any ministry he is engaged in. Your church will be blessed beyond measure by Peter’s ministry. May God richly bless you.
Rev. Hare is the interim pastor at First Church of Christ, Sandwich, MA.