HOLLIS – The Congregational Church of Hollis welcomed its new settled pastor Rev. Tanya Rasmussen to their community on Aug. 23, where she preached to a full congregation on the theme "What Might We Build Together." Last March, after a two-year search, the local congregation voted overwhelmingly in favor of calling her to Hollis as their new pastor and teacher.

Rasmussen, who has served in Boston-area churches as well as parishes in England and Sweden, moved to Hollis this summer with her family. Accompanying her were her three sons and husband, Joel, a professor of theology and philosophy, and director of the Centre for Theology and Modern European Thought at Oxford University, UK. She said that her first "Sunday in the pulpit felt like a true celebration, which was wonderful."

"I’m always fascinated by the history of the churches I serve – because the history inevitably explains the present," Rasmussen said. "In 1923, our church building burned to the ground. According to church records, ‘the minister at the time, Mr. C. F. Hill Crathern, as well as the people, desired a convenient and beautiful building which should accommodate the varied activities of a real community church.’ Based on conversations I’ve had with a variety of people, that desire remains generations later, and is part of this congregation’s identity. I’m pleased that this church sees itself as a community church, because one of my passions and commitments is deepening our understanding and practice of living together in healthy, meaningful community."

The church’s eleven-member search committee penned a letter to the membership this winter commending Rasmussen’s "personal strengths, her intellect, her leadership, and her engaging Christian spirit," as well as her "youthful energy that will connect with all ages of our congregation."

The Congregational Church of Hollis was founded in 1740 as a Christian meeting house, and has had several incarnations over the years. In 1961, the church voted to join the United Church of Christ. The church has about two hundred active members, of diverse ages and interests, with a strong music program, community outreach, and children’s and youth ministries.

"There is clearly an abundance of talent, gifts, and energy in this community of faith," Rasmussen said. "I look forward to discovering what, with God’s help, we might build together," and share "our abundance with a hungry and hurting world."

The church will host its annual Rally Day to mark the start of its Christian Education’s Sunday School program on Sunday, Sept. 13, followed by a picnic that is open to all. Community members are invited to come hear the new pastor preach, join the festivities and learn more about the church on the common at www.HollisChurch.org or call 465-7797. Worship is at 9 and 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 13. Congregational Church of Hollis is at 3 Monument Square.