Our Pastor Welcomes You
Welcome! I'm Lisa Hadler, pastor of First Congregational United Church of Christ in Ottawa. I'm a native Iowan, but have lived most of my life in Illinois. I'm a graduate of Illinois State University and Andover Newton Theological School in Massachusetts. I share my home with my cats--Leo, Shadow, and Sophie; and my beagle, Grace.
As pastor, I do my best to preach the message of Jesus, a message of radical forgiveness, radical inclusion, and radical generosity, I believe that Jesus' message, and the support of faith communities trying to live it out, can build a world of peace, kindness, mercy and love. I believe that following Jesus can bring individuals to eternal life, and the courage to live Jesus' life-changing ways here and now. I believe God is at work in our world and in our lives. I believe that the Holy Spirit strengthens us to be the light of the world, and salt of the earth.
I hope you'll join us in worship, Christian Education, and our many fellowship activities, as we do our best as a congregation to follow Jesus. No matter who you are, or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here!
Recently, I made a presentation at the Theology and Peace conference, and there was a suggestion that I post it here. Please click on this link. You will need Adobe Acrobat to read it.
http://uccottawa.squarespace.com/storage/Intro%20MT%20Notes%202.pdf