Celebration on the Lake Church's congregation unanimously elected Mary Clair Lowence as its new pastor in September 2015.

She begins her pastorate immediately and will be formerly installed in a worship and celebration service Nov. 29. The church serves the lake's LGBT community, but it also welcomes all people and faiths into its membership.

Ever since she was 12 years old, Mary Clair wanted to be a minister. And for the past 27 years, she has been involved in ministry, according to a press release. She has served as pastor of small churches and large churches. She has been minister to older adults, youth and children. She has directed pastoral care and congregational life. Her ministry has also included being a hospice chaplain.

All of this has prepared her for her next great adventure as the newly elected pastor of Celebration on the Lake, according to the statement.

Celebration’s previous pastor, Kathy Bowser, retired in earlier this year and under her 10 years of leadership the church has grown, acquired land and built a beautiful building in Payne Springs. The church’s mission is to be a place where all are welcome, demonstrated in its inclusive and diverse congregation.

Rev. Lowrance is focused on continuing the work of Rev. Bowser by leading it into its future.

“We don’t know what the future holds, but we definitely know who holds the future! We have trusted God who has led us this far and God will continue to guide our journey and direct our dreams we have for our Church and for our community,” Lowrance said. “I am so excited for what is in store at Celebration. I know with every fiber of my being this is where God needs me to be!”

Rev. Lowrance and her soon to be spouse, Jaye, live in Fort Worth during the week. Lowrance is the Wellness Director at Lakewest Rehab and Skilled Nursing Center in West Dallas.

Lowrance is pictured below.