Westport's Saugatuck Congregational Church Names New Pastor

News release from Saugatuck Congregational Church:

WESTPORT, CT — Saugatuck Congregational Church, located at 245 Post Road East in Westport, is pleased to announce that the congregation has voted unanimously to call Rev. Dr. Steven Savides to serve as its new pastor.

Rev. Dr. Savides is expected to begin ministry at Saugatuck Church this September. He brings with him a deep commitment to peace and social justice, faith formation, pastoral care, and inclusive, life-giving worship. A gifted preacher, teacher, and storyteller, he has served United Church of Christ congregations in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Ohio. Rev. Dr. Savides’s broad background as a pastor, theologian, educator, and former journalist reflects his passion for building resilient and compassionate communities.

Born and raised in South Africa, he has lived in the U.S. for nearly three decades with his wife, Rev. Nanette Pitt. Rev. Dr. Savides holds a PhD in Peace Studies and Theology from the University of Notre Dame, along with graduate degrees from Harvard Divinity School and Andover Newton Theological School.

About Saugatuck Congregational Church

Saugatuck Congregational Church, founded in 1832, is a vibrant, active community of people who gather to worship, learn, work, and play together. The church is a community partner in Westport with a long history of engagement in social justice issues. Its doors, congregation, and communion table are open to all. SCC is an Open and Affirming Congregation (LGBTQ+ affirming) of the United Church of Christ. The church looks forward to continuing its mission under Rev. Dr. Savides’s leadership.