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 Reverend Douglas Van Doren's 30th year with the congregation. 

Reverend Van Doren received his Master of Divinity degree from The Chicago Theological Seminary with concentration in  Biblical Study and Pastoral Care. His leadership in the struggle for justice and equality is well recognized in the Grand Rapids community and beyond.

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, and the United Church Board for Homeland Ministries. He has traveled, for study purposes, to several Central American countries.

The Reverend Van Doren serves on numerous boards of directors including the Grand Rapids Urban League and Planned Parenthood Centers of West Michigan and is a founding member of Concerned Clergy of West Michigan, formed to call churches to openness and acceptance of gay and lesbian people.

He is often sought for consultation by other clergy, churches and community groups. He is available for ministerial functions and for pastoral care, home and hospital visitation, crisis counseling, personal consultation, and referral.