Mike Carter has been appointed the new permanent pastor at First Congregational Church of South Paris. From left are Rick Bennett, church moderator, and Carter. Submitted photo

First Congregational Church of South Paris has selected Michael Carter as full-time permanent pastor.

Church Moderator Rick Bennett said in a news release that “We are thrilled to have such a caring, committed, community leader as Mike Carter guide our faith family. Mike has a special gift for inspiration and communication. In his messages and his works, he connects scripture to the needs and challenges of real people living today in the Oxford Hills. We encourage and welcome all people in our area to come visit us and see if we might be a place where they can find spiritual sustenance.”

Carter, a native of Whitefield, has been a teacher at Poland Regional High School, where he will continue until the end of this school year.

He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in social studies education at the University of Maine and a master’s degree in history with a concentration in American social and religious history.

At First Congregational, Carter has been a member of the Board of Spiritual Life, assistant moderator, moderator and part-time interim minister since August 2020. He and wife Jo-Ellen reside in South Paris.

Carter said, “I am honored and humbled to be called to serve First Congo, a church filled with people who welcome anyone and everyone to join them and people who do so much community service in the Oxford Hills area.”

The First Congregational Church, located at 17 East Main St. in South Paris, was founded in 1812.

For more information, call 207-743-2437 or email congo@megalink.net.