Rev. Isaac Lawson (he, him, his)

Senior Minister

A native Washingtonian, Isaac was ordained by the Potomac Association of the United Church of Christ (UCC). Prior to Texas, he spent the last decade doing ministry in Connecticut. He was the Area
Conference Minister (ACM) for the 96 congregations and seven associations within the Southern New England South Central region. Before that, Isaac served in a dual call as Associate Minister for Community Outreach at Immanual Congregational UCC and Communications Associate at the Center for Leadership and Justice (CLJ) in Hartford, CT.

Isaac completed training in broad-based community organizing and served on the strategy team of CLJ’s Greater Hartford Interfaith Action Alliance (GHIAA) comprised of 50 diverse, multi-faith congregations and allied institutions organizing for justice.

In addition to over a decade of experience in ministry, Isaac also worked in higher-ed, the non-profit sector, and logistics and operations at the World Bank. He has an MDiv from Union Theological Seminary in the City of New York and a Master of Sacred Theology (STM) from Yale Divinity School.

Isaac loves conversations over coffee, good brunch, superhero movies, and Zumba. To schedule an appointment, email: Isaac.lawson@fortworthucc.org

Joel Penrod (he, him, his)

Worship and Music Director

Joel's passion is creating meaningful worship experiences centered around music that speaks to all types of worshipers. You'll find everything from traditional hymns to African-American sprituals to secular music ranging from the Beatles to Lady Gaga. We have a full band on Sunday mornings with organ and violin mixed in sometimes. Joel's committment to you is that every week you'll find something you enjoy that brings you closer to God. 

John Bowers (he, him, his)

Youth & Children's Director

John Bowers brings a passion for faithful, justice-oriented, community and compassionate collaboration to ministry. He earned a double bachelor degree in Economics and Finance before earning a Master’s of Divinity at Brite.  With this background in business and theology, John has worked over 20 years at the intersection of thoughtful biblical reflection and practical service. 

John is especially committed to walking alongside children, youth, and families as they grow in faith, curiosity, and purpose. Known for his creativity, warmth, and love for meaningful conversation, he believes the church is called to be a place of belonging, healing, and hope for all people.

When he’s not serving in ministry, John enjoys backpacking, cooking, watching sports, planning trips, and spending time with family—including a cat and three dogs.

Katie Howlett (she, her, hers)

Office Administrator & Communications Specialist

Katie serves as the Office Administrator and Communications Specialist, overseeing the daily operations of the church office and helping ensure communication remains clear and organized. She manages administrative responsibilities, coordinates schedules, and helps keep important information accessible for the congregation. With a strong attention to detail and a commitment to keeping things running smoothly, she supports the day-to-day needs of the church office. Outside the office, she enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and taking long walks with her dogs.

Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter by clicking this link. If you have any photos or events to share, please email them to communication@fortworthucc.org. 

Laurie Casland Simmons (she, her, hers)

Accompianist and Vocalist

You'll find Laurie on the piano or behind the microphone on Sundays... unless she's behind the organ or playing guitar! Every once in a while she may even surprise us with a puppet show. Laurie works closely with Joel to bring a variety of music to FCC each week and creating a meaningful worship experience for all ages.