The West Suffield Congregational Church is welcoming its newly appointed pastor, Rev. Denise Peterson, on Sunday, September 12, at 10 a.m. Pastor Peterson has been preaching at the church periodically over the past several months, and the congregation asked her to stay on as its permanent pastor. Her approachable and friendly down-to-earth demeanor both on and off the pulpit has been a positive attribute that the church members have enjoyed.
Regarding her position Pastor Peterson says, “I simply love this church. In Congregational tradition, the people make the church. The people in this church are welcoming and kind, they know how to laugh, and they have a strong sense of community. They truly care for each other. I am hoping as the year starts up to have new faces coming into our church to find a little oasis, a place of rest and comfort in a world where peace and joy are at a premium.
I believe that God is made manifest in human relationships. Following the isolation of the past two years, it is more important than ever to be the face of Jesus: arms open, offering faith and hope. I also believe that it is important for people to have a safe space to process their dissonance when the world seems as though hope is hard to find and peace is far away. As a hospice chaplain, I understand how important it is, right now, to find spaces of joy as well as places where people can have someone to talk with. So welcome as we start services on September 12, but I am available to talk with anyone who needs a little support, a quiet ear, or for anyone who simply wants to ask questions.
My email is denise@westsuffielducc.org. Check in anytime.”
A “church for the community” invites all on September 12 at 10 a.m.
The service includes new music directed by Organist Ed Napolski and a newly revamped Sunday school for children. A potluck luncheon will be held following the service.
Email the church office (office@westsuffielducc.org) for further information or check online at www.westsuffielducc.org or at www.facebook.com/WestSuf fieldUCC.