Geneva church welcomes new minister with a focus on community outreach

The congregation of United Methodist Church of Geneva is enjoying fresh energy and ideas from their newly hired Minister of Formation and Outreach, Rev. Heather Connor.

“Heather brings fresh ideas, faithful leadership, and a collaborative spirit to this role, and is helping to guide our congregation in living out our mission and to grow in our community,” said Ken McNeil, the Staff Parish Relations Committee Chair.

Rev. Connor and her spouse, Adam, recently moved to Geneva with their three children, who are settling into Geneva High School and Williamsburg Elementary School.

Since their arrival this summer, Rev. Connor has already helped organize vacation Bible school, developed materials for the launch of this fall’s Sunday school curriculum for children and youth, come alongside adult faith formation leaders, and planned new fellowship and service opportunities for teens. They also have expanded the church’s annual “Blessing of the Backpacks” and have begun supporting senior members who are unable to attend in person.

Beyond the church walls, Rev. Connor is collaborating on community and ecumenical programs, such as Pub Theology and The Neighbor Project, and joined the congregation in hosting a presence at the Belong Fox Valley picnic, celebrating inclusivity and connection across the wider community.

“Rev. Heather Connor brings years of experience creating programs that connect with people of all ages and backgrounds. Their work has focused on building community, supporting families, and offering spaces where children, teens, and adults feel welcomed and valued. Known for both creativity and collaboration, Heather is eager to strengthen partnerships between the church and the wider Geneva community,” added Rev. Rob Hamilton, senior pastor. “I look forward to building connections with all ages and stages, growing in wonder and awe of our Creative Creator. As we dream boldly, journeying together, I pray for the fruit that this already vibrant and inclusive community, rooted in Divine Love, will bear.”

Worship is at 9 a.m. Sundays in the church sanctuary, 211 Hamilton St. It is also livestreamed via genevaumc.org/services/.

For more on United Methodist Church of Geneva, go to genevaumc.org.