Our Church Staff

Here at CFC, we believe that all church members are called to serve in daily life.  We have a church staff comprised of people who care deeply about serving God and being the hands and feet of Christ in our congregation and beyond.

If you have any questions for our staff, feel free to call our church office to speak with them (860) 537-5189

or email us at cfc06415@gmail.com

  • Reverend Lauren Ostrout, Pastor  

    The Reverend Lauren Lorincz Ostrout has served as the Pastor of Colchester Federated Church since 2017.  Originally from Wadsworth, Ohio, Pastor Lauren grew up in the United Church of Christ and she’s passionate about preaching the Gospel, teaching the stories of the Christian faith, and serving others as Christ calls us.  Pastor Lauren graduated magna cum laude from Elon University with a Bachelor’s Degree in History, and with honors from Andover Newton Theological School (now Andover Newton Seminary at Yale Divinity School) with a Master of Divinity Degree.  She previously served as the Solo Pastor of a UCC congregation in Massachusetts for six years.

     

    Pastor Lauren is part of the Next Generation Leadership Initiative (NGLI) of the UCC, an Andover Newton Fellow, and a Certified Forest Therapy Guide.  She appreciates being involved in the wider church and being part of such an historic, dynamic, and welcoming congregation here at CFC.  Pastor Lauren's husband, Neill Ostrout, is an Editor with Hearst Connecticut Media.  She knew that he was truly "the one" when he became a fan of the Cleveland Browns for her. Just for fun, Pastor Lauren enjoys traveling, photography, reading, forest wandering, and cheering for her beloved Cleveland Browns. Feel free to check out Rev. Lauren Ostrout's Blog to read sermons and reflections & Lauren Ostrout's Unsplash to view some of her photograpy!

  • Kimberly Lewis, Music Director

    Kim Lewis came to Colchester Federated Church as the Music Director in 2010.  In addition to conducting the church’s senior and youth choirs, Kim also plays the organ and piano in our weekly services.  She brings a wide variety of musical styles to our worship services that are meaningful and uplifting to our congregation.

     

    Kim has lived in Colchester since 2006 with her husband David, and two active sons, Emery and Elliot. She has her Bachelor’s Degree in piano from Ithaca College, and has played at numerous churches before coming to CFC. Music has been a significant part of Kim’s life for as long as she can remember.  In addition to her position here, Kim also is a private piano teacher and accompanies many choral ensembles in the area. She is very proud and humbled to be a part of this Christian community and our active, worshipful music program here at Colchester Federated Church. 

  • Nicole Hosford, Christian Education Director & Office Manager

    Nicole Hosford has been a lifelong member of Colchester Federated Church, where her faith journey began and blossomed. Growing up surrounded by the compassion and dedication of the congregation, she was deeply inspired by the way faith was brought to life through the church's many activities. This strong foundation instilled in her a desire to contribute to the church’s enduring legacy.


    Passionate about nurturing a strong Christian foundation in children, Nicole has dedicated many years to supporting Sunday School, youth groups, and church-wide activities. In January 2017, she stepped into the role of Director of Christian Education, bringing her commitment and enthusiasm to the forefront of her ministry. In 2024, she further strengthened her knowledge by earning certification in Faith Formation & Youth Ministry Leadership through the Southern New England Conference of the United Church of Christ.


    Nicole is devoted to creating a welcoming and joyful environment where children and youth can experience the love of God in meaningful and engaging ways. She works tirelessly to ensure that they not only feel safe and supported but also have fun as they explore their faith. Nicole feels blessed to walk alongside the young members of the church, sharing in their spiritual growth and discovery.

  • Dave Hock, Custodian

    Dave Hock began as the Custodian for Colchester Federated Church in 1978.  A native of Buffalo, NY, Dave is still delighting in marriage to his wife, Barbara (they tied the knot in 1972).  Dave and Barbara raised four children and are now enjoying time with their many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, especially Natalie!  Dave is a U.S. Army Veteran, having served two overseas assignments during the Vietnam War.  His hobbies include gardening, bowling, and watching New York Yankee Baseball!

  • Tom St. Louis, Treasurer

    Tom St. Louis, his wife Christine, and their son Evan have been members of Colchester Federated Church since 2006.  In addition to being our Church Treasurer, a member of the Ministry of Stewardship, and an all-around congregational "Jack of all trades", Tom works as the Director of Public Health Workforce Development at the Connecticut Department of Public Health. He was the Chairman of the Pastoral Search Committee that brought Pastor Lauren to Colchester Federated, and has served as a Discipleship Mentor, a member of the Diaconate, and on many other Ministries and Missions. 

     

    Tom feels particularly drawn to his ongoing work with youth, both in our church and in the community.  For 10 years, he served the Town of Colchester as the Chairman of the Youth Services Advisory Board, and he has also been involved with VBS and is tagged to give the children's message during service a couple of times a year.  He also spends as much time as he can engaging in his true passion... coaching high school athletics (soccer, basketball, and softball).