BRANDON — The Rev. William L. Bartholomew, who has served as pastor of the Brandon Congregational Church for more than six years, will be retiring within the next year according to the church. Congregants are being asked to help in finding a replacement pastor.
Rev. Bartholomew made his plans known to the congregation in February, writing “Our worship of God in word and music has lifted our spirits and filled the air all around our historic church building. The carillon has kept folks reminded that God loves them.”
Sending out over 100 epistles since the beginning of the pandemic, Rev. Bartholomew continues to serve as a beacon of hope in these troubled times and will continue to serve the church for a period of at least one year, BCC officials said.
A search committee has been formed and is working to compile an official United Church of Christ Profile, which will be made available to perspective pastors nationwide. To gain a broader perspective of the role the church plays in the community, any expectations people may have, and how the Brandon Congregational Church can better serve, the committee will be reaching out for and greatly values input directly from members of the community.
Anyone interested in participating in this effort is asked to contact the Brandon Congregation Church at brandoncongregationalchurch@gmail.com or 802-247-6121.