Pastor William (Bill) Rivera

- Associate Pastor and Counselor

BACKGROUND:

Pastor Bill became a Christian at age 17 and enlisted in the United States Navy shortly afterward. Arriving at his first duty station in San Diego, California, he was challenged by some men to “Take up his cross, follow Jesus as a disciple, and commit himself to fulfilling the Great Commission of Christ." Pastor Bill earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, in Belton, Texas (1986), and a Master of Arts in Theological Studies (Youth and Family Counseling) at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Hamilton, Massachusetts (1990).   He was ordained for the Gospel ministry in 1986 at Belton, Texas. 

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT:

• Director of Multicultural Affairs and Immigration Practice for the State of Connecticut Department of Children and Families

• Human Development Adjunct Professor at Connecticut College

LIFE:
Pastor Bill is married to his wife Rosie Rivera. They are the parents of five children and seven grandchildren. 

“I am a coconut addict. I enjoy fishing and cooking. I love wrestling with my grandkids. I would let them win at first, and as they get tired that’s when I win”