Ministerial Exchange in the Wharfe Valley
The Bridge Church, Otley and Salem URC in Burley-in Wharfedale have welcomed Rev Dr Rich Kirchherr from the First Congregational Church in Western Springs (part of the United Church of Christ in the USA), near Chicago to their congregation, with their Minister, Rev Jason McCullagh swapping roles and heading off to the USA.
Rich has led worship and a midweek Communion service during his stay. Both churches put on a ‘welcome’ meal for Rich and his wife Clare.
The First Congregational Church’s website has this to say about Rich;
‘Rich began serving as our Senior Minister in 1998. Prior to that, he was one of our associate pastors for 10 years. Rich received both his Masters of Divinity and his Doctorate of Ministry from Chicago Theological Seminary. He continues to serve the seminary as an adjunct professor in preaching and is a life member of its board of trustees and has served on numerous other boards, including Plymouth Place, a UCC related retirement community. As Senior Minister, Rich serves as the head of our staff, works with our finance and stewardship ministries, coordinates our adult faith exploration, men’s ministry and provides the primary coordination for our worship services. Married to Clare Kralovec in 1986, they are the proud parents of three adult children.’
We were pleased to welcome both Rich and his wife Clare and appreciated their time with us.
It was refreshing to experience the style of worship led in the the Western Springs First Congregational Church.