Our Team
Pastoral Staff
Senior Pastor
The Rev. Kate VanDerzee-Glidden
Kate began at First Church as Director of Christian Education in 2003 and has served as a Pastor since 2009. Kate’s passion for creating a welcoming, justice-seeking, hope-filled, love-sharing and compassionate community with dedicated colleagues and faithful church members is at the heart of her ministry.
Minister of Pastoral Care and Visitation (through 8/31)
The Rev. Betsey Polgase
Betsey provides visitation for our elderly, sick, hospitalized, and homebound members and leads worship at local convalescent facilities. She has served First Church since 2019.
Minister of Pastoral Care and Visitation (as of 9/1)
The Rev. Allison Glass
Ally Glass helped us this summer with our pastoral and worship needs while Kate was on sabbatical. Many of you know Ally because she is an active member of First Church, our Greater Hartford Interfaith Action Alliance Team, and the Church, Growth and Membership Committee.
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Program Staff
Director of Music Ministries
Dr. Angela Salcedo
Angela has overseen our worship music and adult and youth choirs since 2000. She is First Church’s organist, organizes concerts and music scholarships for our community, and leads summer choir camp. Get to know Angela—>
Interim Junior High Fellowship Leader
Olivia LaFargue
Olivia's previous service includes roles on the Board of Children’s Ministries, the Board of Youth Ministries and the Micah Children’s Initiative. She has also served as an advisor for our Junior and Senior High Fellowship programs, taught Church School, led Vacation Bible School and participated in multiple mission trips.
