Rev. Heather Leslie Hammer, Pastor

Rev. Heather Leslie Hammer joined Lynnewood as lead pastor in July, 2011. Heather brings a love of people to our community.  She is a life-long United Methodist and second-career pastor, having been a high school teacher and active lay person in the church for many years. 

Before coming to Lynnewood as ordained elder, Heather ministered at St. John’s (Rohnert Park) and San Ramon Valley (Alamo) United Methodist Churches.  She graduated from Pacific School of Religion (Master of Divinity), the University of Maryland (M.A.), and American University (B.A.).  She has lived in Austria, Switzerland, and Micronesia.

Heather preaches most weeks, always using the Bible, but also sharing contemporary issues and literature.  She seeks to help people find meaning in their lives and develop their faith in God through life challenges.  Heather enjoys talking to people to help them discern their gifts for ministry and mission.  She is passionate about music and social issues of today.

Heather’s husband, Jim Hammer, is a theoretical physicist.  Heather and Jim’s son Sepp (30) lives in Menlo Park, works at Stanford, and is a classical singer. Their daughter Leslie (26) lives in Kansas City and works for an English-as-a-second-language program helping refugees from around the world.

“The church is where my family has found meaningful connection in our busy lives.  When our son died, I was surrounded by loving people who embodied God’s love.  We have the opportunity to be the hands and feet of Christ here at Lynnewood.  It is a sacred calling and a real joy.  I hope you will join us and see whether this connection might give your life new meaning.”

Read Heather’s sermons here.