New Minister at Second Congregational Church Has Local Ties

The of Manchester will welcome a new minister next Sunday, Robert LaRochelle, who has ties to both the Manchester and South Windsor area. 

LaRochelle, a South Windsor resident who works as a guidance counselor at South Windsor High School, said he used to live in Manchester near Second Congregational Church more than 30 years ago when he and his wife were newlyweds, and is excited to return to the community. When the position at Second Congregational Church became available, LaRochelle said he pursued it because of his fondness for the Manchester community. 

"I'm really excited and can't wait to get started," LaRochelle told Patch. "They're a wonderful congregation with a great tradition. One of the first things I want to do is to get to know the people. I don't have much of an agenda for changes that I want to implement."" 

LaRochelle previously served as minister of the Congregational Church of Union, UCC for several years. He is also the author of the book "," which was published by Pilgrim Press in 2010. His position at Second Congregational Church is part-time. 

LaRochelle said he likes to emphasis good preaching and believes in the importance of continuing educational opportunities for youths and adults.