About us

Central Congregational Church: A welcoming community rooted in faith.

Our church has a rich history of service and community engagement. Starting with a small group of dedicated individuals, it has grown into a vibrant congregation committed to faith, outreach, and support for those in need. Over the years, we’ve adapted to the changing needs of our community while remaining steadfast in our mission to spread love and hope. Our journey reflects a legacy of unity, compassion, and spiritual growth that continues to inspire new generations.

Meet the Pastor

Pastor Rick Hughes

Pastor Rick Hughes

I have been serving Central Congregational Church since January 1, 2015. I started in Ministry July 1, 2001 in the United Methodist Church. It was there that I experienced the call as a pastor. Since I was older, around 40, I participated in what is called the ‘Course of Study’. After completion of the course I was licensed as a local pastor.  I served the United Methodist Church for 14 years before coming to Central Congregational Church. In 2019 I was ordained in the United Church of Christ.

Prior to entering into Ministry I was in the educational field as a teacher/principal for 21 years. I earned a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education.

Kathy and I were married in July of 1977. We have been blessed with a son Adam and a daughter Emily. Adam is married to Lauren and has given us 2 grandsons, Oliver and Elliot. Adam is a computer engineer and lives with his family in Columbus, Ohio. Emily is teaching English as a second language in Japan.

My interest include, but not limited to, reading mysteries, Soduko puzzles, traveling and collecting antiques.

71 Park Place

Central Congregational Council

The Council at Central is an active group consisting of one person from each board that is designated to represent them at the meeting.

Council consistes of a board member from: Christian Education, Music & Worship, Deacons, Missions & Trustees. The Financial Secretary, Treasurer, Moderator and Vice Moderator are also in attendance.

The meeting is led by the Church Moderator and in his place the Vice Moderator. They review the plans of each board, lend support and welcome anyone who may want to attend.

They welcome everyone to Central Congregation Church who would like to join us to pray, and worship the Lord.

Board of Deacons

The Board of Deacons consists of members elected by the church body who gather once a month to pray for church members as well as those needing prayer outside of our church family. 

The board serves communion on the first Sunday of each month. They help with special services throughout the year and organize a once-a-month community dinner. 

The spiritual growth of members and friends are forefront with the Board of Deacons and they welcome all to join us at Central.

Meet our team

Rick Hughes

Rick Hughes

Pastor

Forest Blair

Youth Director

Cathy Radie

Cathy Radie

Church Secretary

Jesse Wodrig

Jesse Wodrig

Moderator

Danielle Miller

Danielle Miller

Board of Deacons Chairperson

Bill Robinson

Board of Trustees Chairperson

Kim Miller-Schwab

Kim Miller-Schwab

Board of Missions Chairperson

June Selwyn

June Selwyn

Board of Christian Education Chairperson

Joyce McLaughlin

Board of Worship and Music

Paulette Szuhay

Paulette Szuhay

Organist

Cheryl Swackhamer

Cheryl Swackhamer

Choir Director

Sharynne Jacobson

Sharynne Jacobson

Women's Fellowship President

Tom Reichert

Men's Club President

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

Swiss Steak Dinner

Saturday, January 25, 2025
5:00pm – 7:00pm
In our Fellowship Hall

Open to public
Dine in or to-go available
$14 per dinner benefiting Hurricane Helene relief

Giving

Giving

If you would like to give your offering online, you may do so at the following link. You can even create a profile and schedule a weekly offering.