CLARKS SUMMIT — Rev. Andrew Weidner has only been a pastor at Clarks Summit United Methodist Church for about a month, but he’s already making a difference.

“So far, he’s (Weidner) been well-received,” said Mary Magner, secretary of the church. “He has a lot of plans and the best part is that he cares.”

Weidner officially became the new pastor of Clarks Summit United Methodist Church on July 1, and the congregation celebrated with a ceremony July 10. Since then, he has been enjoying interacting with church members and visiting those in need at nursing homes and hospitals.

“I really enjoy the pastoral care,” he said. “Pastoral care is one of my strong points. I think it’s important.”

Weidner has visited health care centers such as Regional Hospital of Scranton, Geisinger Community Medical Center, Abington Manor and Allied Services. However, he isn’t limited by local boundaries. Last week, he visited someone in a Wilkes-Barre hospital.

“It’s not a set,” he said. “I go where my people are.”

Born and raised in Honesdale, Weidner has been a Christian all his life. He believes that God has called him to become a pastor. After receiving a bachelor’s degree in computer science at Wilkes University in 1994, he earned a Master of Divinity at Drew Theological School in Madison, N.J. in 2005.

Weidner started his career by serving in the Pleasant Mount Charge. He then became pastor at Emory United Methodist Church in Hancock, N.Y., then First United Methodist Church in New Milford, and later, Athens United Methodist Church in Athens.

Weidner and his wife of 38 years, Sandy, wanted to be close to their hometown of Honesdale, so when he was informed of an opening at Clarks Summit United Methodist Church, he accepted.

He and Sandy now live in a parsonage at Hilltop Drive in Clarks Summit. They enjoy gardening, especially growing flowers and container vegetables. They also travel on occasion to places like New England.

Weidner and Sandy have two sons, Jacob, 45, and Lucas, 35; and two daughters-in-law Teresa (Jacob’s wife) and Jessica (Lucas’ wife). Jacob and Teresa have two children, 11-year-old Hayden and 8-year-old Delaney.

He finds the church to be busy yet welcoming. Weidner looks forward to his time at Clarks Summit United Methodist Church and wants to be involved with confirmation and Bible studies.

“I’m excited to be here,” he said. “I can’t wait to better understand the church in the area. I’d like to get to know different denominations in the area.”

Rev. Andrew Weidner, right, became pastor of Clarks Summit United Methodist Church on July 1. He is shown here with his wife of 38 years, Sandy.
http://www.theabingtonjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Finger-Lakes-008.jpg.optimal.jpgRev. Andrew Weidner, right, became pastor of Clarks Summit United Methodist Church on July 1. He is shown here with his wife of 38 years, Sandy. Submitted photo

By Ben Freda

For Abington Journal

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