Max Olmstead has been the Senior Pastor at The Dover Church since August of 2009. With a lifetime in United Churches of Christ in New England, Colorado and California, Max brings an enormous enthusiasm for the Good News of God’s unconditional love for everyone without exception to our faith and fellowship. Max sees his ministry here as a learning exercise in how to successfully do church in prosperous Boston suburbs in the 21 st century when most people in these parts are suspicious of church and think that church has little of relevance to offer to their lives.
Before going to seminary, Max studied and taught Old Norse sagas and mythology, Swedish and Vikings. While pastoring here in Dover, Max became a certified Kripalu yoga instructor and regularly teaches classes at the church. Max lives with his wife, two almost grown children, and their dog. In his spare time, Max loves to fly fish and be on the water, as well as hike in Corsica with his family, and run.
Before going to seminary, Max studied and taught Old Norse sagas and mythology, Swedish and Vikings. While pastoring here in Dover, Max became a certified Kripalu yoga instructor and regularly teaches classes at the church. Max lives with his wife, two almost grown children, and their dog. In his spare time, Max loves to fly fish and be on the water, as well as hike in Corsica with his family, and run.
Kayla, native of Easton, MA, started as a Pastoral Associate at The Dover Church in January 2020 while finishing up seminary. She was drawn to TDC by the authenticity and welcome she found, and in June of 2020, the congregation made it official by calling Kayla to serve as Associate Pastor. Kayla is excited to come alongside The Dover Church in the work of striving together to follow Jesus, love our neighbors, and work for reconciliation and justice in the world, and she is energized by getting to spend time learning with and from young people.
When not at The Dover Church, Kayla also co-directs Camp Wilmot, a Christian overnight camp in the Lake Sunapee region of New Hampshire. As a camper and now a staff member, Camp Wilmot has been a place where Kayla has witnessed the transformative power of belonging and play, and where she’s developed a passion for youth ministry. Kayla enjoys running, reading mystery novels, gardening, cooking, exploring all the amazing outdoor spaces the Dover area has to offer, and spending time with her family, friends, and her husband Walter.
Nancy Simms is the Assistant Treasurer of The Dover Church and has served in that capacity since 2014. She also has served the church in several volunteer capacities including as Chairman of the Board of Deacons, a member of the visitation ministry team, a member of Sunday school teaching teams, and most recently as a member of the Handbell Choir. Nancy is active in the local community, having served on and led many committees, commissions and boards, and continues to enjoy the connections she makes through these volunteer activities. Nancy’s prior work experience includes assignments in multiple east coast cities with an international public accounting firm and several years with a private consulting firm in Washington, DC. Nancy grew up in Middlebury, Vermont, received her undergraduate degree in Economics and German from Williams College, and earned an MBA degree in Finance and Public Policy from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. She and her husband have four (mostly grown) children. Nancy enjoys walks in beautiful places, cooking and eating good food, reading books and going to the movies, doing needlework and craft projects, and laughing with friends and family.
Martha joined The Dover Church staff in October 2022.
