Deacon Pratt Paterson appointed as Diocesan Disaster Preparedness and Response Coordinator

Deacon Pratt Paterson

We are pleased to announce the appointment of the Rev. Pratt Paterson, deacon serving Christ Church Cathedral, Mobile, and Executive Director of Wilmer Hall, as the Diocese’s Disaster Preparedness and Response Coordinator.

In this role, Paterson will serve as the diocesan liaison for disaster-related resources and response opportunities, train congregations in preparedness and resilience, and connect local efforts with broader diocesan and national partners. His work will help ensure that our congregations are equipped to offer compassionate, efficient, and sustained support in times of crisis—whether responding to floods, fires, hurricanes, or other emergencies—so that the Church remains a trusted and reliable presence when it is needed most.

Deacon Paterson brings extensive hands-on experience and specialized training to this ministry, including service as an EMT with Sewanee EMS (2003–2013) and as a Firefighter/EMT with Sewanee Fire Rescue (2014–2016). His professional certifications include Weather Spotter Certification (National Weather Service, 2012); Disaster Relief Chaplaincy Certification (National Disaster Interfaith Network, 2025); Incident Command Certification (FEMA, 2025); and Concepts of Religious Literacy for Emergency Management Certification (FEMA, 2025).

We are grateful for Deacon Paterson’s willingness to serve the diocese in this vital capacity and look forward to the leadership, expertise, and pastoral care he will bring to our shared work of disaster preparedness and response.