Rev. Cowell joined First Congregational Church in November 2011 as a Designated Term Pastor. Pastor David was born and raised in Palo Alto and attended UC Berkeley, where he earned a degree in History. After moving to New York City, Pastor David earned a Master’s of Divinity degree from Union Theological Seminary in the City of New York. At Union, David studied with some of the leading voices in theology and ethics. Pastor David has a particular interest in ministry focused on comfort at the end of life, and continues his work in adult and pediatric hospice at Pathways Hospice, while he serves our community.

Pastor David believes that Progressive Theology is entering an incredibly exciting time with convergence of young pastors comfortable with contemporary and emergent worship styles finding a home in progressive theological thinking. “This is really the best of all worlds, and I think it is giving hope to our congregations who have been struggling with a tidal wave of change from all directions. It’s going to make us more resilient and better able to proclaim the Good News of Jesus.”