In-care of Central Association

Recognizing that the path towards ordination is different for each seminarian we take time to lift up the ministry that each of our in-care folks are actively involved in.

Judy Hanlon is the active pastor at Hadwen Park Congregational Church www.hadwenparkchurch.org in Worcester.  This is a full time job and calling.  Speaking of her walk with the congregation Judy states “our ministry together is being richly blessed.”  This blessing reflects the busy work or responding to God’s call: “We just completed a 1.2 million dollar renovation project and voted to become ONA.  Worship attendance continues to rise.  We welcomed 26 new members, confirmed 6 fiery young confirmands, and 10 babies were baptized between October and the end of the year.”  Just looking at the banner at the church’s website you can see the transformation they have experienced.

Though still a student at Andover Newton Judy’s day to day life most matches a fulltime ordained minister's life; attending to the needs of the congregation, funerals, weddings, confirmation.   The support of colleagues and friends in the area offer strength and an opportunity to share in ministry.  Aside from her regular responsibilities at Hadwen Park Judy also participates with other ministers sharing Lenten services, youth group interactions and music concerts.  If you are able to pin her down Judy is always ready to talk about ministry and how God continues to lead her in new, creative ventures.

From Jennifer Munroe-Nathans:

I have been in-care with the central association since October of 2002.

While I've described my progress through Andover Newton Theological School as the "eternity plan" there is light at the end of the tunnel.  I am looking to graduate in May of 2007.

As a student, I've been blessed with amazing opportunities in ministry.  My field education placement at the First Congregational Church of West Boylston under the supervision of the Reverend Steven Small was a joy.  I was able to work in a thriving congregation and experience the many aspects of ministry, from paper work to council meetings.  I was able to serve as a short term student pastor for the Union Congregation Church in Maynard. This amazing congregation allowed me to jump into pastoral ministry with both feet.  It was a honor to be able to serve with them.  I am currently serving the Federated Church of Warren as student (and solo) pastor.

When I am not in Warren or at Andover Newton, I can usually be found in Rutland where I live with my husband, Rob Nathans, our 6 year old son, Parker, and Molly, our Wheaton terrier.  Like many working moms, I sometimes struggle to find a balance between work, study and family time.  It certainly helps that I have a very supportive (and forgiving!) family.

I appreciate the prayers and support of the central association.  I look forward to this great journey and to see all the new things God is doing.