Rev. Greg Watling

I came to Gaylord to be part of a community that was different from others. I was searching for a community of people who, to the best of their ability, live out the words they say. I came here because this was an Open and Affirming congregation, whose ministry is focused on helping one another become “the best version of ourselves possible.” Meanwhile, we believe, “that no matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.” A lot of churches say these things, but I have experienced these words in action among these people of faith. 

My journey began in Owosso, in downstate Michigan. I then spent time in East Lansing, Kansas City (Missouri), and Northeast Wisconsin (De Pere, near Green Bay, and New London). I had always dreamed of living in northern Michigan, and am overjoyed that my dream of living here has become reality. 

In addition to serving this congregation of amazing people, I also strive to embody the church to our surrounding community. I actively participate in community organizations, events and cultural offerings. I serve on the Gaylord Area Council for the Arts as Vice President, and have recently completed Leadership Otsego County through the Chamber of Commerce (class of 2023). I also love to hike, bike, kayak and engage in other outdoor adventures. 

For those interested, I do have a Bachelor of Arts from Michigan State University: James Madison College, with a major in American Public Affairs and a Master of Divinity from Saint Paul School of Theology. I served the United Church of Christ in East Lansing, Michigan, Missouri, Wisconsin, and now in Gaylord. I am married to Cindy Goller, and together we have three adult children. 

I look forward to meeting you and to help you in your faith exploration! 

Rokko Jans
Music Director

The award-winning composer, Rokko Jans, brings a lifetime of musical experience to his role at First Congregational UCC, from touring the U.S. in rock bands to composing scores for feature films and Broadway shows. This appreciation for many styles of music is displayed in our Sunday worship, where each week Rokko and talented members of the congregation share their gifts!

Picture coming soon

Liz Larson
Communications Coordinator

 In Jeremiah, the prophet writes to those exiled to Babylonia from Jerusalem, “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. ‘” Jeremiah is essentially giving us hope that, even when our familiar lives change, we have a future as part of God’s plan. I came to Gaylord as a new person in a new town, newly retired. And my new job as the Communications Coordinator at First UCC is a perfect fit in His plan for me! 

I was born and raised in Traverse City at the base of Old Mission peninsula, very involved in First Congregational UCC there. As a child, my parents taught for two years in Micronesia on the island of Yap, and I attended first grade there. I have spent my career in a variety of cities (Ann Arbor, metro Detroit, Los Angeles, Columbus, Perrysburg, OH, and Traverse City) and organizations as a CPA, a City Treasurer and Tax Commissioner, on City Council, taught math, working in student ministries and outreach at First United Methodist Church in Birmingham, MI, and as a Human Resources Manager. I have a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Michigan and a Master of Education from Ohio State University (I refuse to use the unnecessary “The”). My two adult children live in Seattle and Traverse City. I moved to Gaylord to live in this beautiful part of the state with my partner. 

You can find me on walks through the woods and volunteering. I enjoy reading, lifting weights, and cooking. Stop by my office on Mondays and Thursdays and let’s get to know each other!