Rev. Wayne Peterson-Stephan

Rev. Wayne Peterson-Stephan (he/him)

Rev. Wayne Peterson-Stephan is an ordained minister (UCC) and Licensed Mental Health Counselor, holding a master’s degree in both counseling and divinity. Rev. Wayne’s call to ministry grows out of a lifelong passion for healing, belonging, and transformation. His background in community mental health has shaped a pastoral approach grounded in listening, relationship, and radical welcome.

Rev. Wayne describes his faith as relational at its core—believing that God’s love is revealed through connection, that the Spirit continues to move through us, and that the church is called to embody Christ’s invitation to compassion, justice, and renewal. He also finds deep meaning in the liturgy and sacred traditions of the church—the prayers, sacraments, and practices that unite believers across generations and remind us that faith is both deeply personal and beautifully communal.

He has a deep love for theology and believes that faith is not meant to be static, but an ongoing journey of exploration and discovery. Wayne invites honest questions, open dialogue, and curiosity—trusting that as we engage Scripture, tradition, and the Divine together, we draw closer to the heart of God and to one another.

Rev. Wayne is married to his husband, Jordan, who is also a licensed therapist. Together they own and operate Folx & Friends Counseling, an inclusive and affirming practice providing compassionate mental health care. They have two children—an son who has just entered adulthood and a teenage daughter—along with their two dogs, Finn and Minerva, and their cat, Oakley.

A classic geek at heart, Rev. Wayne loves The Lord of the Rings, Dungeons & Dragons, video/board games. He also loves a variety of music and singing, especially showtunes, and enjoys walking outdoors and soaking in the beauty of nature. Whether preaching, counseling, or sharing coffee with someone new, Rev. Wayne’s deepest hope is that everyone who enters this community knows they are not alone—and that there is room for them here.