Pastor

Rev. Doug Van Doren

"It seems to me that the church, whenever it's faithful, always lives at the intersection of Liberty and Love."

Rev. Doug Van Doren

July 6, 2008

On October 5, 2008, Plymouth UCC celebrated the Rev. Douglas Van Doren's 30th year with the congregation.

Rev. Van Doren received his Master of Divinity degree from The Chicago Theological Seminary with a concentration in Biblical Study and Pastoral Care. His denominational experience includes serving on the Board of Directors of the United Church Board for World Ministries, which oversees the world mission work of the United Church of Christ. Rev. Van Doren also served as a corporate member of the United Church Board for Homeland Ministries. He has traveled, for study purposes, to several Central American countries.

His leadership in the struggle for justice and equality is well recognized in the Grand Rapids community and beyond. He’s often sought for consultation by other clergy, churches, and community groups and is a popular speaker whenever local discussions of faith intersect with social justice. Rev. Van Doren is available for ministerial functions and for pastoral care, home and hospital visitation, crisis counseling, personal consultation, and referral.

Rev. Van Doren is a founding member of Concerned Clergy of West Michigan, formed to call churches to openness and acceptance of gay and lesbian people, and has served on numerous community boards of directors including Planned Parenthood Centers of West Michigan, where he was also board chair. He served two years as Chair, and currently serves on the board of directors of the Grand Rapids Urban League.

An avid sea kayaker, Rev. Van Doren is known internationally as an expert in the traditional (Inuit) style of kayaking. He has taught and given rolling demonstrations throughout the U.S., Canada, and Great Britain and holds a “Coach III” certification from the British Canoe Union.