Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniel Doty.
Hi Daniel, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
The First Congregational Church of Tallmadge, United Church of Christ was established in 1809. On July 12, 1806, the Reverend David Bacon contracted to purchase 12,000 acres of land in the Western Reserve section of the state of Connecticut. This land was in what would become Summit County in Ohio when it was established in 1840. Bacon then named Tallmadge, after its largest proprietor, Benjamin Tallmadge who was a Revolutionary War soldier. In Rev. Bacon’s home, the first cabin built in the Township, on January 21, 1809, it was instituted to organize a Congregational church in Tallmadge. The Church was the basis of the town, giving it its true character from the beginning.
The city of Tallmadge has a famous 8 point circle at the heart of the city. First Congregational Church built a wood frame church in 1825 which still remains in the circle to this day.
In 1964, a thorough self-study revealed that the best course for the future of the congregation lay in the purchase of additional land and the construction of a completely new facility which would provide under one roof the sanctuary, classrooms, choir practice area, meeting rooms, fellowship hall, kitchen, and offices that the church badly needed. In 1968, construction began on Heritage Drive, one block east of North Avenue, and less than a mile north from the historic church on Tallmadge Circle. At that time, it was decided by the congregation that the historic church should be turned over to the Ohio Historical Society for restoration and preservation.
First Congregational Church of Tallmadge, United Church of Christ continues as a thriving community of faith in the city of Tallmadge, Ohio
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The struggle for space and adequate and modern facilities led the church to build a new church with offices and fellowship hall in 1969.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a clergy person serving a church I have the ability to be creative with worship services, educational opportunities, and church-life events. I am proud to host thriving and large bible studies and book studies. We meet once a month at a local pub for an event entitled “Bible and Brews.” We gather for food and drinks and casual conversations. Folks who attend are encouraged to bring their questions about, bible, faith-life, or whatever is concerning them.
I also have a background in music. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio. I am a classically trained opera tenor. I continue to have an active performance life that allows me further creative and artistic outlets. I lived in Italy and performed. I did some impromptu signing in the ancient theaters in Turkey while on an archeological tour. I made my solo debut in Carnegie Hall NYC in 2017.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Love the people you serve. Get involved in their lives. Be willing to spend time listening to lots of people. Be flexible; Know the foundations of bible and theology but don’t be afraid to think way outside the box!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.fcctallmadge.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fcctallmadge?igsh=MnkyaHNjejQ0YjZw
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BV7W4Zewo/?mibextid=wwXIfr
