Elders
The word “Presbyterian” comes from the Greek word “presbuteros,” which means “elder.” Presbyterian churches are governed by the elders of the congregation, who have been elected by the members and ordained. There are two types of elders: teaching elders (pastors) and ruling elders. Together, they make up the Session of our church. The Session shepherds and leads CPC, provides spiritual care and oversight to the congregation, and is charged with maintaining the spiritual government of our church.
Teaching Elder: James Pavlic
After twenty-five years in the software industry, James Pavlic sensed a clear call to full-time pastoral ministry. Ordained in the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), he planted Hope Church in Middlefield, Ohio, and later shepherded small-group and church-planting ministries at Parkman Congregational Church.
In 2023, the Lord led James to Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashua, New Hampshire, where he preaches Christ-centered, Scripture-filled sermons and guides the congregation in prayer-saturated discipleship. A certified seminar leader with seeJesus, James regularly teaches A Praying Life and A Praying Church nationwide. His doctoral research at Reformed Theological Seminary explores how the doctrine of adoption shapes gospel-healthy leadership (“Sons in the Son”).
James enjoys serving on various committees within the Northern New England Presbytery and on the New England Church Planting Network, advocates for continuous improvement in church leadership, and is writing two resources: Tree Spirituality (a discipleship guide) and Worshipping Jesus in the Psalms (a devotional commentary).
James, his wife Amanda, and their youngest son live in Nashua, NH.
Ruling Elders: Wesley Allen, Matt Oquist
Deacons
Deacons are also elected by the members of CPC and ordained. The office of deacon is one of sympathy and service, after the example of the Lord Jesus; it expresses also the communion of saints, especially in their helping one another in time of need. The Deacons are organized as a board called the Diaconate.
Deacons: Steve Eng, Mark Snyder
Deacon Assistant: Karen Eng
Staff (Volunteer)
Church Administrator: Jennifer Oquist
Children’s Education Coordinator: Amanda Pavlic