SIDNEY — Sidney First Methodist Church welcomed a brand new senior pastor on Sunday.
The Reverend Leland Carlson preaching his first sermon on Sunday. Instantly following the service, the congregation held a catered luncheon to welcome Pastor Lee and his spouse, Michele Carlson, to Sidney First.
Carlson has relocated to Sidney after serving over 30 years in a number of Methodist church buildings within the higher New York space. His earlier connection to the Midwest was in Wilmore, Kentucky, the place he earned his Divinity diploma at Asbury Theological Seminary, whereas Michele has ties to the western Pennsylvania space.
The Carlsons have a daughter, Samantha, who alongside along with her husband and twin sons resides in Kentucky, and a son, Ben, positioned within the Washington D.C. space.
“While our local church has welcomed me to lead the congregation, we will remain focused on our vision and mission which is well defined,” Carlson stated. “Michele and I are excited to be a part of the Sidney community and involved with a vibrant, growing church in west central Ohio. The Wesleyan-based theology, doctrine and discipline as well as the commitment to ‘worship passionately, love extravagantly, and witness boldly’ aligns well with my background and the impact Sidney First has had in the community for 200 years.”
Along with Carlson, pastors Rev. Eileen Hix and Rev. Jane Madden will proceed to function Elders for Sidney First Methodist. All three pastors are dedicated to persevering with to steer the missions targeted native congregation in welcoming all, growing disciples, and sharing Jesus Christ with the world.
“Well bless their hearts.”