The Jay Baptist Church held a community barbeque to welcome new pastor Pastor Chris Dalessio Aug. 24 in Jay. Rebecca Richard/Franklin Journal
JAY — Jay Baptist Church hosted a free community barbecue Saturday, Aug. 24, to introduce its new pastor, Chris Dalessio and his wife, Heidi Kokkala. Dalessio began his new role in Jay in July of this year. The event began at noon and saw a warm and sunny day that contributed to the cheerful atmosphere of people talking and eating.
Dalessio said he began his faith journey in 1990 and has since served in Baptist churches in Nevada and New Hampshire. After meeting his wife, Heidi, in 1996, they married in 1998 and moved to the United Kingdom, where they were active in a local church in London. Chris pursued theological studies at the South African Theological Seminary and was ordained in 2004.
Following his ordination, Chris served as pastor at Taejeon Presbyterian English Church in South Korea for a year before moving to Finland, where he pastored at Tapiola Christian Fellowship. Upon returning to the United States, he became the pastor of West Paris Baptist Church in Maine. Now, Dalessio and his wife are beginning a new chapter at Jay Baptist Church, where Heidi will continue to play a significant role in their ministry.
The gathering, which featured hot dogs, potato chips, drinks and desserts, provided an opportunity for community members to meet the new pastoral couple. Attendees also engaged in discussions about future church events, particularly groups focused on children’s activities, with more details to be announced soon. One suggestion was a crocheting club for young people and another suggestion was for a weekly group for tweens and teens.
In addition to the barbecue, the Jay Fire Department brought a fire truck on-site, allowing attendees to view the vehicle and ask questions, which was a highlight for many, especially the children.
The Jay Fire Department has a fire truck parked and open for viewing and questions at the Jay Baptist Church’s welcome barbeque held for the new pastor Chris Dalessio and his wife Heidi Kokkala Aug. 24 in Jay. Rebecca Richard/Franklin Journal
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