Wanda Celli has been named Middletown Community United Methodist Church's interim pastor. Courtesy photo.

MIDDLETOWN – Wanda Celli has been appointed interim pastor to the Middletown Community United Methodist Church effective July 1, announced Rev. Dr. Ben Silva-Netto, Shasta District superintendent.

As part of her pastoral assignment, Celli, a resident of the Lower Lake area, will provide pastoral care, conduct membership classes, community outreach, member development, on the first Sunday serve communion and coordinate a summer children’s program.

Methodist Elder Denis Eucalyptus of Lower Lake Methodist Church will provide supervision during her term in Middletown.

“The administration of the church will continue to be directed by the church council and church committees,” Silva-Netto told the Pastor Parish Relations Committee and church council at a special meeting on May 5.

“We are excited to be the first church Wanda will serve as pastor to fulfill her calling,” said Voris Brumfield, Church Council chair.

Episcopal Deacon Peggy Thompson, Rev. Timothy Locke and Linda Diehl-Darmes have been Sunday speakers during the last six months and will continue to offer motivational messages as part of the last three Sundays each month, said Brumfield. Additionally, special dramatic presentations and quarterly ‘All Singing Sunday’ will provide variety in the Sunday Worship services.

“We have a small, dedicated congregation which recognizes the need to be of service to the community with our facilities and programs which support the needs of young families and older adults who are experiencing the challenges of life,” Brumfield said.

In August 2007, Celli became the Middletown church musician while also attending seminary and working for her husband, Ken.

In November 2007, with the transfer of Pastor John Song, Celli's responsibilities expanded to include pastoral care.

Pastor Celli will be the speaker at the 10 a.m. Sunday service on May 18. Leon Ballew will provide special music.

For more information about the programs and services of the Middletown Community United Methodist Church phone call 987-3379. The church is located one block east of Calistoga Street (Highway 29) at 15833 Washington St. at the corner of Washington and Armstrong.

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