New Pastor Coming To Hinsdale Church

HINSDALE, IL – Hinsdale United Methodist Church is getting a new pastor starting in July.

The Rev. John Bell, who has served as a pastor for more than three decades, is taking the reins. He was born at the Hinsdale hospital and grew up in Downers Grove.

Since July 1, the Rev. Grace Oh has been the local church's pastor.

In 2023, Bell became the pastor at First Lutheran ECLA in Louisville, Kentucky.

For 31 years, he has been a pastor at northern Illinois churches – Cherry Valley UMC, Good Shepherd UMC in Bartlett, Trinity UMC in Yorkville and Wesley UMC in Aurora.

Bell said the Hinsdale congregation truly cares about its community and serves its mission.

"My hope is that we can grow together, meeting people in the community right where they are, just as they are, reflecting our mission to 'love God and love everyone,'" Bell said.

He and his wife, Alison, have three grown children, two of whom live in the Chicago area. His interests include hiking, writing, enjoying good food, and attending live music performances.

His arrival will be celebrated at the 10 a.m. service July 6, followed by a small meet-and-greet reception at 11 a.m. A larger welcome reception for the pastor and the community is set for 11 a.m. July 13, following the morning service. The public is invited.