Methodist pastor returns to local roots

by Patty Reiman

The congregation of Hudson United Methodist Church welcomed a new pastor this past summer, and it was a homecoming of sorts for the Rev. Bruce Hartley, a Ravenna native. He accepted the appointment to lead the Hudson church after most recently pastoring a Methodist church in Medina County.

Hartley fills the vacancy that was created when the Rev. Clark Stein retired in the spring following three years at Hudson UMC.

“I am honored to be appointed to Hudson UMC and to participate in the Hudson community. It is a God-incident that I am here in this place at this time. I am optimistic about the United Methodist Church and the Hudson congregation, despite the struggles evident before, during and after COVID.”

Hartley began his ministry career as a student associate at Ravenna United Methodist Church in the late 1980s. He graduated from Ravenna High School and from Kent State University with a bachelor’s degree in English. He holds a Master of Divinity from United Theological Seminary in Dayton.

His career of more than 35 years within the United Methodist Church has taken him to churches in different parts of Ohio, including several years in Northeast Ohio churches in Elyria, Lakewood and Medina.

“This appointment has brought us closer to home than our previous appointments,” he said, adding that his in-laws still live in Ravenna, and he has siblings who live in Portage, Stark and Summit counties. “I’m married to my high school prom date.”

Hartley and his wife, Janet, are enjoying the lifestyle change of living in Hudson, according to the pastor, compared to most recently living in a rural township of Medina county.

“We have missed living in a town. Serving in Hudson, we find many activities and opportunities for gathering for social events,” he said, jokingly adding he has learned to not park on Main Street on a Friday afternoon during rush hour and expect an easy exit.

Hartley said he’s spent some of his time thus far in his new position “meeting the people of this congregation and community, learning the rhythms of life here and observing the culture of the church and Hudson.” He has enjoyed serving with others at the Hudson Food Pantry each month. One of his first activities after starting at Hudson UMC was running in the Four on the 4th race with his daughter, Megan, and son-in-law, Dustin, and some congregants from Hudson UMC.

He has another daughter, Susan, who lives in Tallmadge with her children and husband, Nick.

Hartley invited all to visit him and the church.

“Church is more than worship, and worship is more than a sermon,” Hartley said. “Church is about connecting with the Divine and those who are seeking to deepen a relationship with the Divine and with imperfect people. Church is about nurturing faith through study and worship. If you have doubts, come and wrestle with others who have doubts.” ∞

The Rev. Bruce Hartley and his wife Janet are happy to be close to family in Ravenna and nearby communities. Photo by Becca Gates Photography.