HOME
 

What we're all about

Covenant Church had its beginnings in the 1970’s in the North County of San Luis Obispo.  A core group of Christians came together with a longing to see a grace-filled community that was passionate about loving God and loving neighbor.  That longing continued when Covenant Presbyterian Church of Paso Robles (Covenant Church Paso for short) was launched on Easter morning in 1986.  

Covenant Church Paso continues today with that same passion to grow as a genuine community of Christ followers who treasure the Gospel (good news of God’s life-giving actions in Jesus Christ), and continually seek ways to pour our lives into the diverse peoples of the Paso Region.  Come and Love God and Neighbor with us!

 
 
CovenantGroup-11mb.jpg
 
 

Covenant is a Christian church in the mainstream of historic orthodoxy. But we speak Christianity with a Presbyterian accent. We are organized and governed by Presbyterian principles and our leaders embrace the commitments of our denomination, the Presbyterian Church in America. 


Although we are Presbyterian, the Covenant family is very diverse in our individual Christian traditions and backgrounds as we welcome anyone into our membership who embraces the core truths of the Christian gospel.

 
 

We Believe... 

  • in one God in three persons — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — who are equal in divinity, power, and glory and have existed from eternity in a relationship of perfect love.

  • the Bible is the written word of God, inspired by the Holy Spirit, truthful and trustworthy in all that it intends to communicate.

  • that God created the world very good, and made men and women in his image with the responsibility to cultivate and develop his good creation.

  • that men and women rebelled against God, violating his design for life, rupturing the relationships between God, people, and the world, and bringing guilt and brokenness to the world. These are beyond our ability to repair. We need a savior. 

  • that God resolved to redeem his world and his people, and sent his Son Jesus to atone for our guilt and restore creation. Through his life, death, resurrection, and ascension he bore the penalty for our guilt and broke the power of sin in this world. He offers complete redemption of body, soul, and spirit to every person who puts their trust in him.

  • that Jesus Christ will come again bodily to fully restore creation, usher in the just and merciful Kingdom of God, and gather people from every tongue, tribe, and nation to live in his peace forever.

  • this good news (the gospel) transforms the hearts and lives of individuals, creates loving community, and empowers us to serve in love.

 
 
 
unsplash-image-9zsHNt5OpqE.jpg
 

Staff

Featured
<b>Rev. Dan Katches I Pastor</b>
Rev. Dan Katches I Pastor

Dan and his wife, Bonnie, came to Paso Robles in 1995 with a deep sense of calling to pursue pastoral training and further their education. They arrived after serving five meaningful years in campus ministry with CRU at Chico State University, a time that shaped their heart for ministry and deepened their love for people and the gospel.

For the past 24 years, Dan has faithfully served as a pastor at CPC, investing in the lives of countless individuals and families with warmth, integrity, and a genuine love for Christ. Together, he and Bonnie have raised six children and now have the joy of loving three beautiful grandchildren.

In his free time, Dan can often be found with a good book in one hand and a strong cup of coffee in the other—or cheering passionately for the San Francisco Giants. At the heart of it all, Dan and Bonnie continue to live out their calling with a deep love for God, family, and the people He has placed in their path.

<b>Nick Nowakowski | Pastor</b>
Nick Nowakowski | Pastor

Nick and his wife, Jillian, met while studying at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, where they both earned their bachelor’s degrees in Biblical Studies. After graduating, they felt called to return to Nick’s hometown of Paso Robles, a place deeply rooted in their hearts, to build a life and serve the local church.

For seven years, Nick invested in the next generation through student ministries, sharing the love of Christ with middle and high school students and fostering deep connections with families. Following this fruitful season, he served for three years as a pastoral intern at CPC, gaining valuable experience and growing in his pastoral calling. In May of 2024, he was ordained and joined the staff as a co‑pastor, stepping into a role that allows him to walk alongside people of all ages and stages of life.

Nick and Jillian have three beautiful children who fill their home with energy and laughter, as well as two exuberant dogs and two friendly cats that complete their bustling household. Together, they cherish life in Paso Robles and delight in serving the church and community that have become such an integral part of their family’s story.

<b>Rev. Will Hawk I Founding Pastor</b>
Rev. Will Hawk I Founding Pastor

In 1978, Will and his family felt called to move to North County as church planters, planting deep roots in Atascadero where he founded Covenant Church. A few years later, in 1986, he went on to establish Covenant Presbyterian Church in Paso Robles, along with its cherished preschool, Great Beginnings — a ministry that has shaped countless families in the community.

Today, Will serves as the founding pastor and continues to invest in the life of the church he loves. You’ll find him leading small groups, offering pastoral counseling, visiting those in need, mentoring leaders, and sharing an occasional children’s sermon that captures hearts of all ages.

Will and his wife, Joyce, live in Templeton and are blessed with four children and seven grandchildren. When he’s not serving at church, Will can often be found out on the ocean fishing from his boat, aptly named “SeaJoy”, or enjoying the company of friends and neighbors at the Templeton Dog Park. Of course, his loyal and very “thoroughly bred” dog, Juneau, is usually right by his side — a faithful companion and a cherished part of their family’s story.

<b>Ted Wagner | Elder & Music Director</b>
Ted Wagner | Elder & Music Director

Ted and his wife, Brandy, have called Paso Robles home since 2006, building a life here with their two wonderful daughters. In 2012, Ted stepped into the role of Director of Worship Music at CPC, sharing his deep love for music and helping to lead the church family in heartfelt praise. In 2023, he was also ordained as an elder, further serving the church he has come to call home.

Ted’s musical journey began early — he started playing the violin at just five years old and later picked up the guitar while pursuing a degree at Cal Poly. Today, he finds great joy in using both talents to help others experience the beauty of worship.

When he’s not strumming a guitar or tuning a violin, Ted can be found teaching math at Paso Robles High School, a role that allows him to invest in the next generation both inside and outside the church. In his free moments, he loves to stay active — whether it’s playing soccer, going for a hike, getting lost in a good book, or simply enjoying quality time with Brandy and their girls.

<b>Brandy Wagner | Children’s Ministry Coordinator </b>
Brandy Wagner | Children’s Ministry Coordinator

Brandy is a proud fourth‑generation native of San Luis Obispo County and a graduate of Cal Poly, where she earned a degree in English. With a heart for sharing God’s lavish love, Brandy has long been passionate about nurturing the next generation. For many years she served as a dedicated volunteer, supporting the church’s role in helping children and families grow in their faith. In 2023, she officially joined the staff, bringing her warmth, creativity, and deep love for kids and families to the role.

Brandy is deeply grateful for her husband, Ted, and their two blossoming daughters, and finds great joy in seeing the ways God is at work in their family. When she’s not serving at church, Brandy can often be found tending to her garden, volunteering at local schools, or simply seeking out moments of beauty and grace in everyday life.

<b>Joe Horne | Elder</b>
Joe Horne | Elder

Joe and his wife, Debbie, have called Paso Robles home for nearly 25 years, where they raised four children — all proud graduates of Paso Robles High School. An intriguing chapter of their family’s story is that three of their sons went on to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, a point of pride and honor for their family.

Today, Joe and Debbie are discovering new ways to serve God in this rewarding post‑child‑raising chapter of life. Joe is a practicing optometrist with Pacific Eye and has long been active in the local community, including 12 years of coaching youth baseball. These days, you’re more likely to find him enjoying a game of “old man” softball through Paso Robles Parks and Recreation.

Through it all, Joe is deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as an elder at Covenant Presbyterian Church — a role he embraces with humility and a heart to glorify God in this new season of life.

<b>Garet Pahl | Elder</b>
Garet Pahl | Elder

Garet, his wife Jessica, and their four children have made North County their home since 2016, where they enjoy a peaceful, intentional life tending to the plants and animals of their aspiring homestead. Their days are filled with the simple joys of caring for creation and cultivating a home rooted in faith and family.

Travel is a cherished family passion, and they often explore the breathtaking beauty of God’s creation both locally and across greater distances. These adventures frequently blend with Garet’s lifelong love of surfing, a pursuit that connects him deeply to the natural world and provides moments of reflection and renewal.

Professionally, Garet is a registered nurse working in corrections—a role that requires compassion, patience, and strength. Beyond his work, his heart is drawn to theology, church history, and great books, with a special interest in the rich teachings and traditions from antiquity and the Middle Ages.

Motivated by a deep love for the flourishing and purity of the Church’s worship and mission, Garet considers it a profound honor and blessing to serve the church community in this way, seeking always to contribute with humility and dedication.

<b>Don Idler | Deacon</b>
Don Idler | Deacon

Don Idler is a familiar and respected figure in the county, known both for his successful ownership of three local appliance stores and his deep commitment to serving the community. Alongside his wife, Janis, Don has raised two wonderful children and now enjoys the blessing of two grandchildren who bring joy to their family life.

Called to serve as a deacon, Don embraces this role wholeheartedly, where he is able to use his natural gifts of administration, service, and mercy to support and care for the church family. His practical wisdom and compassionate heart make him a valued leader and encourager in the congregation.

A lifelong fan of the Dodgers, Don also enjoys spending his leisure time on the golf course, where he occasionally tries to perfect his swing — always with a good spirit and plenty of laughs.

<b>Jerry Gast | Deacon</b>
Jerry Gast | Deacon

Born and raised in Los Angeles and Inglewood, California, [Name] carries with him the vibrant spirit of Southern California. After graduating from Cal State Long Beach with a teaching credential, he dedicated 35 years to public education, shaping young minds and making a lasting impact on countless students throughout his career.

His commitment to service began early, serving honorably in the U.S. Army from 1969 to 1971 — a time that helped shape his character and deepened his appreciation for discipline and teamwork.

[Name] has been happily married for 55 years, cherishing a lifelong partnership filled with love and mutual support. Outside of his professional and family life, he enjoys staying active by playing tennis and is an avid fan of the Dodgers, finding joy in rooting for his favorite team.

A heart for serving others shines through in all he does. Whether volunteering in the community or lending a helping hand, he embraces opportunities to make a difference and lives out his faith through acts of kindness and generosity.

<b>Ben Walker | Deacon</b>
Ben Walker | Deacon

Ben was raised and attended college in Philadelphia, where his love for the Phillies was born and continues to this day. Though he now calls the Paso Robles area home, those roots from the East Coast remain a cherished part of his story.

By God’s grace, Ben has faithfully served as a deacon at Covenant for over a decade, dedicating himself to the spiritual health and growth of the church family. His commitment to service is marked by humility and a sincere desire to see the church flourish in faith and unity.

Outside of his ministry role, Ben enjoys an active lifestyle that keeps both body and mind engaged. He is an avid runner who appreciates the discipline and peace that come with the sport. A lover of good stories, he often immerses himself in novels that inspire and challenge him. Ben also values community and connection, regularly attending Reformed singles events and cherishing time spent with friends.

Through all these pursuits, Ben exemplifies a heart for God and others, striving to live out his faith authentically in every part of life.

<b>Gentle L (Jim) Daniels | Deacon</b>
Gentle L (Jim) Daniels | Deacon

Married since 1976 to Brigitte Daniels, [Name] cherishes his family deeply. Though their beloved stepdaughter Britta has passed, they are blessed with two grandchildren and one great-grandchild who continue to bring joy and life to their family story.

With a remarkable career spanning nearly four decades, [Name] served honorably in both the military and federal civil service for 39 and a half years. His dedication to service extended beyond his professional life — he was an active founding member of Covenant Church Paso Robles after joining in Atascadero.

For 15 years, he has been involved in prison ministry, offering hope and support to those in need. Additionally, he has faithfully served as a volunteer chaplain at Twin Cities Hospital for 25 years, providing comfort and spiritual care to patients and their families.

Since 2004, he has been serving as a deacon at Covenant Presbyterian Church Paso Robles, using his gifts to nurture and support the church community with grace and humility.

<b>Bob Burgess | Deacon</b>
Bob Burgess | Deacon

Bob Burbess is the kind of man whose faithful service often goes quietly unnoticed, yet his impact is deeply felt. A dedicated Army veteran, Bob serves with humility and steadfast commitment, always willing to step in and help wherever needed — without seeking praise or acknowledgment.

Known as a man of few words, he’s the one who will look you in the eye and offer a firm handshake, embodying integrity and dependable character in every interaction. Though details of his personal life are private, his steady presence and faithful heart have made him a valued member of the Covenant community.

 
church-leadership.jpg