Pastor’s Corner with Sara Charlton

Every journey of faith is unique, and Pastor Sara Charlton’s story is a testament to the beautiful, unexpected ways God calls us. As the new lead pastor at Mission Covenant Church in Sugar Grove, PA, Sara brings a heart full of compassion and a life shaped by transformation. Her transition from St. John’s Evangelical Covenant Church in Millersburg, OH—where she faithfully served for seven years—has been both smooth and filled with hope for what lies ahead.

Sara grew up in Central Illinois alongside her younger brother and sister. Unlike many pastoral stories, faith was not woven into her childhood home. But sometimes God plants seeds in the most unlikely soil. When Sara was in high school, her father heard an ad for a liberal arts college near Chicago—North Park University—which boasted an excellent biology program perfect for her dream of attending medical school.

At North Park, however, Sara found more than academics; she found friendship and ultimately faith. It was through tea-time talks about life’s worries with caring friends that she first encountered Jesus’ love—a gentle invitation that would change everything.

A pivotal moment came at her grandfather’s funeral when Sara learned how he had given his life to Christ late in his journey—even kneeling at the altar despite physical limitations from a stroke.Hearing about this miracle that her uncle spoke about at the funeral stirred something deep within her: “I didn’t want to wait until I was 80 to figure it out,” she recalls. Returning to campus with renewed purpose, she asked those same friends to pray with her as she accepted Christ as Savior.

Sara soon realized that God had different plans than medicine; instead of healing bodies, He called her to heal souls. She changed majors to history and pursued seminary after graduation—a leap of faith that has led her here today.

Now at Mission Covenant Church, Pastor Sara finds joy watching members care deeply for one another and their neighbors—sharing food and showing up when it matters most. For Sara, witnessing these acts of kindness is nothing short of beautiful—a reminder that every new beginning holds promise when we walk together in love and faith.

May we all be inspired by Pastor Sara’s story: no matter where you start or how unexpected your path may be, God can lead you into a future filled with purpose and grace.