Transitional pastor at First Church Congregational to begin her duties in June

the Rev. Donna Lee Muise will begin her role as transitional pastor in June (Courtesy photos)

ROCHESTER - The Church Council of First Church Congregational, United Church of Christ, Rochester, has announced the hiring of the Rev. Donna Lee Muise as their half-time Transitional Pastor, effective Monday, June 3.

The announcement was made by Moderator Geoff Day during worship service on March 17 and received an enthusiastic response from the congregation.

The Rev. Donna graduated with honors from Andover Newton Theological School and has been an ordained pastor for 29 years. She has served in many pastor roles in Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire. Currently finishing her role at First Congregational Church in Wolfeboro, Rev. Donna has helped that congregation achieve their goal of calling a new settled pastor who will begin in mid-May.

As Transitional Pastor in Rochester, Rev. Donna will be focused on the spiritual ministry of the church, leading worship and making pastoral visits in homes, hospitals, nursing homes, and the like. She has shared with the Church Council that the core of her time will be on "strengthening our faith together, encouraging personal faith journeys of all who participate in the congregation, and discerning God's call on FCC Rochester."

Rev. Donna will have office hours at church and is eager to meet members of FCC and the public as well. Call the church office at (603) 332-1121 for details.

First Church Congregational UCC, Rochester was gathered in 1731. An Open and Affirming community, the church's mission is "Sharing God's extravagant welcome, love, and forgiveness for all, we joyfully live by Christ's example, working together for healing and justice in our community and beyond. Visit https://www.first-ucc.net/ to learn more.