John Calvin Presbyterian Church Hired New Pastor

Diane Knauf began her tenure as the leader of the Salisbury congregation on March 8, 2026.

Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Christianity

Gouache-painted editorial illustration showing carved wooden church doors slightly ajar with warm light spilling out from within. — Diane Knauf began her tenure as the new pastor of John Calvin Presbyterian Church in Salisbury on March 8, 2026. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The John Calvin Presbyterian Church in Salisbury officially welcomed Diane Knauf as its pastor on March 8, 2026. Knauf brings two decades of experience to the role, having spent 29 years in ordained ministry before joining the church.

Why it matters

Knauf stepped into the position with the goal of engaging the congregation through shared stories of Jesus in a learning-focused environment. Her leadership at the church comes alongside her academic background, having earned a doctor of ministry degree in 2023.

The church typically hosts 50 congregants for its Sunday worship services at 11 a.m. Knauf, who holds a doctor of ministry degree from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, leads a congregation that also shares space with other faith groups.

The players

Diane Knauf

She is the current pastor at John Calvin Presbyterian Church who has served in ordained ministry for 29 years.

John Calvin Presbyterian Church

This Salisbury-based religious institution supports local community efforts like Meals on Wheels and Rowan Helping Ministries.

The details

Pastor Diane Knauf assumed her duties after reaching out to the church when the leadership opening was first announced. The church maintains an active calendar, including Sunday school after morning services and choir practices held on Wednesday evenings at 6 p.m.

Knauf earned her doctor of ministry degree in 2023.
The pastor began her role on March 8, 2026.
The choir holds practice on Wednesdays at 6 p.m.
The church will present a special cantata at Christmas.

Culture Shift

The congregation participates in the growing movement of shared sacred spaces, co-hosting different faith traditions within its facility. This model reflects a broader shift toward collaborative resource management among smaller religious communities facing changing demographics.

Local residents and congregants can attend worship services every Sunday at 11 a.m. followed by weekly Sunday school sessions. Those interested in the musical life of the church may join or attend choir practices held Wednesday evenings at 6 p.m.

The takeaway

Knauf brings a long-standing commitment to ministry and education to the Salisbury area as she leads the church through its next chapter. Her arrival coincides with the church's ongoing efforts to support local services such as Rowan Helping Ministries.