Rev. Dr. Barry McCarthy
The Board of Deacons is pleased to introduce the Rev. Dr. Barry McCarthy as our interim minister. Rev. McCarthy previously served United Church of Christ congregations in New York, Rhode Island and Massachusetts. His educational background includes a Bachelors Degree, in Economics, from the University of Connecticut and a Masters of Divinity from Lancaster (PA) Theological Seminary. In 2005, a Doctor of Ministry degree was bestowed by Andover Newton Theological School where his thesis was entitled: “Be Still and Know That I Am God, Discerning God’s Will in Congregational Decision-Making.” He was ordained into ministry by the New Haven (CT) Association of the United Church of Christ. In his employment application Barry wrote: “Sunday morning worship is the highlight of my week, I'm excited by the possibility of sharing the love of God with persons who may be painfully in need of that good news. My current interim pastorate has a very tall center pulpit and as I bound up those ten stairs with hopeful anticipation, I am also humbled by the task before me and pray for the Spirit's guidance with each step. The love of God intersects at the real-world joys and concerns of those gathered for worship, and I seek to lead worship that recognizes the difficulties of life but is joyful, uplifting and inspires trust in Jesus Christ.” During his personal time Barry enjoys travel, golf, music, physical fitness activities and daily Frisbee tosses with Callie, the family dog. The Deacons of First Congregational invite you to visit with us and meet Rev. McCarthy and all of the friendly folk here at our church.