Peachtree Presbyterian Church

Have you ever noticed how a house of worship can be a cornerstone of a community, a place where countless stories are told? As we stand before Peachtree Presbyterian Church, you can truly see its impact. It has been a fixture in the vibrant Buckhead area of Atlanta for over six decades now. Peachtree Presbyterian Church wasn’t always a grand place of worship. It began in 1910 as a simple Sunday school for children. But its reputation for spiritual guidance and community outreach spread, making it one of the largest Presbyterian congregations in the country. In 1926, the first official church building was constructed at the corner of Peachtree Road and Mathieson Drive. However, the congregation grew quickly, and in 1960 it moved to its current location at 3434 Roswell Road. The church campus is spread out over 26 acres, with a large recreation center that houses two basketball courts opened in 1999. Peachtree Presbyterian Church does not just cater to spiritual needs, but also promotes a healthy lifestyle through the Gym at Peachtree, offering a range of fitness and recreational programs. The church considers these programs an integral part of its ministry. Peachtree Presbyterian Church has a rich history filled with remarkable personalities. Rev. W. Frank Harrington held the position of senior pastor from 1971 until his passing in 1999, during which he saw the church grow from fewer than 3,000 members to more than 11,000. In 1992, he even came in second in the election for moderator of the Presbyterian Church (USA), a denomination with over 2.9 million members. The church’s legacy continues to be shaped by dedicated pastors like Dr. Victor D. Pentz, who served as Senior Pastor from 2000 to 2016. Dr. Pentz had a diverse background, including chaplaincy to the Space Shuttle crew during three launches at Cape Canaveral and outreach to surfers along the Southern California coast. Today, the church is led by Dr. Richard Kannwischer, who has been a pastor for over 25 years. With his background serving congregations in Texas, California, and the New York City metropolitan area, he brings his experience and passion to the church. Peachtree Presbyterian Church is a place where history, faith, and community converge. Its enduring presence in Atlanta reflects its commitment to spiritual growth, community engagement, and the pursuit of a better tomorrow.