Dear friends,

Celebrate Pastor Nanette’s service to First Church and bid her farewell as she begins the next chapter in her ministry.

This coming Sunday, January 7, 2024, will be Pastor Nanette’s last day as our Senior Minister. Her call as our first woman and immigrant Senior Minister has been historic in First Church’s 190 years of existence. Both she and her husband, the Rev. Dr. Steven Savides, have given of themselves so that we may grow in faith and service.

Rev. Nayiri Karjian, General Minister for the Living Water Association of the United Church of Christ, will lead a farewell liturgy at both 9am and 11am services this Sunday, January 7. After each service a farewell reception will honor Pastor Nanette’s eight years of service to this beloved community.

I would like to provide my great appreciation to all who are working to help make this time of change as smooth as possible, including Vice Moderator Tori White, the entire Governing Board, the Farewell Committee Members, HR Board members, those that have participated in interviews for the Interim Pastor, and others that have helped get the message out to the congregation.  

Thank you all for your time and patience. If you have any questions, please reach out to me without hesitation. A new year is upon us and together, with God’s grace and guidance, we will keep the missions and ministry of First Church alive!

Sincerely,
Kevin Kowalski, Moderator