Rev. Rudolph van Graan
Pastor
Welcome!
We are glad you have taken the time to explore our community. First and foremost, we hope we have made it clear that you are welcome here no matter who you are. We encourage you to participate in one of our spirit-filled services or join us in one of our many upcoming events. Please do know that your questions and presence are both desired here, and that we are not trying to change you but rather would like to provide for you a family to share that which you already are.
Pastor
Welcome!
We are glad you have taken the time to explore our community. First and foremost, we hope we have made it clear that you are welcome here no matter who you are. We encourage you to participate in one of our spirit-filled services or join us in one of our many upcoming events. Please do know that your questions and presence are both desired here, and that we are not trying to change you but rather would like to provide for you a family to share that which you already are.
|
Sermons posting soon!
Contact Rudolph at rudolph@fccglendale.org or (818) 243-2100
|
 |
About Rudolph
Los Angeles Times Glendale NewsPress
March 15, 2010:
Hailing from South Africa, Rudolph van Graan is bringing a new perspective and energy to the First Congregational Church of Glendale UCC, where he was recently named minister.
Van Graan began at the church in mid-March, 2010. After two years under an interim pastor, the congregation welcomed Van Graan with open arms. “He brings an enthusiasm that is apparently very infectious,” member Susan Aluzri said. Church Moderator Linda Conover said the new minister is outgoing, compassionate, caring and positive. “I get the feeling that he’s excited about what each day will bring,” she said. Working with people was the reason Van Graan got into ministry in the first place, he said. In high school, then faced with the choice of going to university for music or ministry, he chose ministry and proceeded to get his ordination as minister of religion from the University of Pretoria.
In South Africa, Van Graan worked in ministry and as a church organist for years. In 2008, he and his son won a Green Card in the USA Diversity Visa Program. They moved to Florida where Van Graan worked at Faith United Church of Christ as an organist and a musical director. At First Congregational Church of Glendale UCC, Van Graan’s unique perspective and outlook on life contributes to the church’s liberal views and acceptance of diversity. His international background also brings a worldly perspective to the church. Van Graan said he hopes that some day the church can help Third World countries, particularly in Africa. “We can’t disregard the Third World; it is our calling,” van Graan said. “We cannot grow fatter and wealthier without reaching out.”
March 15, 2010:
Hailing from South Africa, Rudolph van Graan is bringing a new perspective and energy to the First Congregational Church of Glendale UCC, where he was recently named minister.
Van Graan began at the church in mid-March, 2010. After two years under an interim pastor, the congregation welcomed Van Graan with open arms. “He brings an enthusiasm that is apparently very infectious,” member Susan Aluzri said. Church Moderator Linda Conover said the new minister is outgoing, compassionate, caring and positive. “I get the feeling that he’s excited about what each day will bring,” she said. Working with people was the reason Van Graan got into ministry in the first place, he said. In high school, then faced with the choice of going to university for music or ministry, he chose ministry and proceeded to get his ordination as minister of religion from the University of Pretoria.
In South Africa, Van Graan worked in ministry and as a church organist for years. In 2008, he and his son won a Green Card in the USA Diversity Visa Program. They moved to Florida where Van Graan worked at Faith United Church of Christ as an organist and a musical director. At First Congregational Church of Glendale UCC, Van Graan’s unique perspective and outlook on life contributes to the church’s liberal views and acceptance of diversity. His international background also brings a worldly perspective to the church. Van Graan said he hopes that some day the church can help Third World countries, particularly in Africa. “We can’t disregard the Third World; it is our calling,” van Graan said. “We cannot grow fatter and wealthier without reaching out.”
Rudolph and his son, Alvaard
