Welcoming CNP’s Inaugural Covenant Fellows Cohort
CNP Welcomes Inaugural Covenant Fellows Cohort
The Covenant Network of Presbyterians is thrilled to introduce the inaugural cohort of Covenant Fellows, five emerging PC(USA) leaders who will begin a nine-month program this September. Through monthly virtual seminars, mentorship from experienced advocates, local advocacy projects and participation in Covenant Conversations across the country, these fellows will help widen the Church’s welcome for LGBTQIA+ people. CNP celebrates these seminary students and recent graduates who are committed to witnessing to Christ’s inclusive love:
Josh Clapp (He/Him) is the Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries at University Presbyterian Church in San Antonio. He graduated from University of Dubuque Theological Seminary with a Masters of Divinity in May 2025 and is currently a candidate for ordination under the care of Mission Presbytery, PCUSA. He has served as a chaplain intern at MD Anderson Cancer Center, youth leader and pastoral intern at First Presbyterian Church El Campo, and in various other capacities throughout the past decade. Before attending seminary, Josh worked as a professional photographer and EMT. He loves being the father of two wonderful kiddos, Samantha (10) and Phoenix (4). Josh is a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and has a passion for creating an inclusive, affirming and safe environment within the church for all. He is honored to join this cohort and see how we can spread the love of God together!
Hanna Richards (she/her) graduated from Princeton Theological Seminary in May 2024 with her Master of Divinity. After graduating, she moved to SE Michigan with her spouse, Nasir, and their dog, Peaches. After completing a yearlong CPE Residency at University of Michigan Hospital, Hanna now serves at First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor as a Resident Minister. She feels called to orient her ministry toward those historically silenced by our church and wider community. Hanna strongly believes that by coming alongside those who have been marginalized, we get to participate in a fuller, more vibrant picture of Christ and his love for all of us. She looks forward to this opportunity from the CNP to grow in knowledge and skill surrounding increasing the church's welcome of our LGBTQIA+ siblings in Christ.
Sarah Rutherford (she/her) serves as a Resident Minister at First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor, Mich. Sarah graduated from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary in May 2025 and was ordained in the Presbyterian Church (USA) in July 2025. Through her ministry, Sarah hopes to support churches as they strive to welcome and support LGBTQIA+ children of God. She is excited to grow as a pastor and advocate through the inaugural Covenant Fellows program.
Ryan Shelley (he/him) is a member of Central Presbyterian Church in Lafayette, Indiana, and a Master of Divinity student at the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary, anticipating graduation in 2026. His call to ministry is shaped by a passion for preaching, teaching, and advocacy, with a particular commitment to creating spaces where LGBTQIA+ people are fully welcomed, affirmed, and celebrated as beloved children of God. Ryan’s ministry experience includes pulpit supply and worship leadership in diverse congregations, as well as active engagement in theological study and denominational service within the PC(USA). He is honored to join the inaugural cohort of Covenant Fellows and looks forward to learning alongside gifted colleagues in the shared work of embodying Christ’s inclusive love in the life of the church and the world.
Briana Vaught (she/her) graduated in May with her MDiv from San Francisco Theological Seminary and is a candidate for ordination in the PC(USA). Originally from Mississippi, she lives in Syracuse, N.Y., with her husband, their 1-year-old son and two cats. Briana is the Office and Communications Manager at Park Central Presbyterian Church. In her ministry work, she feels most strongly called to digital ministry and to those who have been hurt by the church, especially members of the LGBTQIA+ community. She is grateful that CNP is giving her the opportunity to grow her skills and knowledge in this area. Briana loves trivia nights, reading and Disney World.
The program culminates with a year-end retreat where participants will deepen relationships and strengthen their commitment to this vital work. CNP looks forward to supporting these leaders in helping the church live more fully into its calling of welcome and inclusion for all God's people.