Ralph Hamer

Rev. Ralph W. Hamer provides oversight and coordination of pastoral care. He also works to build and enhance relationships with the partner congregations. Pastor Ralph holds a B.S. in Sociology from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown and a MDiv. from the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg. He has been certified in thanatology (the study of death and dying) by the Association for Death Education and Counseling. He previously served as pastor of St. James Evangelical Lutheran Church in Altoona, PA and as a spiritual care coordinator and regional mentor with Aseracare Hospice in Altoona, PA. He currently serves as a casual chaplain for UPMC Altoona, a per diem chaplain with Aseracare Hospice and a supply pastor in Lutheran and Episcopal congregations. Within the community, Pastor Ralph is active with scouting. He serves as the Unit Religious Emblem coordinator for Troop 117, a merit badge counselor with Laurel Highlands Council and has assisted Girl Scout Troop 43010 with various projects. Within the Allegheny Synod he is a member of the Discipline Committee and serves as a Discerning Your Discipleship instructor. He served for five years as volunteer protestant chaplain at the Cresson Secure Treatment Unit. Previously, Pastor Ralph served as president of the board of directors of Family Services of Blair County, president of the Altoona Area Lutheran Co-mission, Lutheran judicatory representative to the Altoona Ecumenical Conference, coach for Odyssey of the Mind and a member of various committees in the Allegheny Synod.