About us

Mission Statement

At the UMC of Pella, we strive to remain genuine in every aspect of our lives. Our mission is to be authentic individuals committed to serving the One True Living God with honesty and integrity. We are dedicated to serving others, inviting new members, nurturing our community, and growing together in faith.

We seek to embody Christ’s love and grace in all we do, creating a welcoming environment where everyone can experience belonging and support. We are passionate about fostering spiritual growth, building meaningful relationships, and making a positive impact both locally and globally. Through acts of kindness, outreach, and dedicated service, we aim to be a beacon of hope and a source of encouragement for all. Together, we aspire to reflect God's love and make a difference in the world around us.

Our Staff

Pastor Olivia Fabros

We welcome our new pastor! Originally from the Philippines, Pastor Olivia came to the United States a few years ago. Her education includes a Bachelor of Theology from Union Theological Seminary (Philippines) and a Master of Divinity from John Wesley College (Philippines). She also served as a District Superintendent of the UMC in the Philippines.

In the U.S., Pastor Olivia worked in Maquoketa, Iowa, before coming to Pella in July 2024. We are happy to have her here to lead our congregation, and we look forward to working in God's kingdom alongside her.

Courtnee Hodges: Office Manager

Courtnee, her husband Ben, and their two daughters, Maddy and Abby, just made the move from Kentucky to Pella. They’re really excited to settle in and get to know their new community. They love sports, being outdoors, and joining in on local events. Fun fact: they’ve lived in six different states!

Ben is the football coach at Central College, and Courtnee joined us as the office manager in June 2024. She’s brought a lot of great energy and experience to the team and is already a big part of our community. Courtnee’s excited to use her skills to support our mission and get involved in everything happening here. Oh, and if you’re ever looking for a recommendation, her favorite place to eat is Vander Ploeg Bakery!