The Norwich United Church of Christ will be welcoming their new pastor, Rev. Jason Boyd, on September 1. The public is invited to come hear Pastor Jason Boyd preach on September 4, and to welcome him to the community. (Submitted photo)

NORWICH — The United Church of Christ in Norwich is excited to welcome Rev. Jason Boyd as its settled minister beginning this September.

Rev. Boyd succeeds Rev. Joe Connolly who retired in 2019 after 23 years in the pulpit. Prior to his role in Norwich, Rev. Boyd was the minister for the Henrietta UCC in Henrietta, NY, and has served in a number of capacities since his ordination on August 1, 2010 including a ministry program in Mexico.

After an extensive search, members of the UCC found that Rev. Boyd embodied the core values of the congregation. Specifically, he is driven by social justice, stating that “practicing the radical hospitality and extravagant welcome of God is how we act and live the core of our faith, the very essence of living out Jesus' commandments to us.”

He feels strongly that “working together for justice and mercy is an overarching part of God's call” for him and for a congregation. In fact, he has experience in leading workshops and discussions to assist parishioners with incorporating social justice initiatives into their own lives and communities.

Worship services are a joyful experience; he speaks of the synergy that is created when the scripture and music come together to deliver God’s word. He is particularly adamant that “worship be relatable, accessible, but also grounded and relevant.”

Rev. Boyd and his beloved schnauzer Scarlett will become official members of the Norwich community on September 1. The public is invited to come hear Pastor Jason Boyd preach on September 4, and to welcome him to the community.

The United Church of Christ is located at 11 West Main Street in Norwich. Sunday service begins at 10 a.m, both in person and online. A livestream can be found on the church’s website under the Worship Services tab.

Please visit the church website at uccnorwichny.org for more information.

-Information provided by UCC Norwich