Union Congregational Church
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

Welcome!
Together, we are creating a celebrating, covenanting, affirming, justice seeking faith community that inspires people to unite and create a peaceful, loving world.

About Us
Elk River Union Congregational Church, United Church of Christ
is an Open and Affirming, Earthwise, Progressive Christian Congregation nestled in the quiet streets of historic downtown Elk River. We welcome into our community all people of every age, race, nationality, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, economic and social status, ability, faith background, and family structure. No matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here.
It is our deep hope that all who join us will be drawn closer to God, find strength and meaning in their lives, and discover mutually supportive friends in Christ.
We are committed to hearing God's ancient story anew in our lives and in the world today. We are seekers who are open to mystery, questions and fresh perspectives. Faith is a lifetime journey and open-hearted education guides our way.


Rev. Sheri Nelson is a Minnesota native, growing up on a dairy farm near Wadena. After high school, she went to college in Portland, ME, lived in the D.C. area, and worked for Petco in Southern California before returning to Minnesota. Sheri felt a call to ministry after working 18 years as a Pharmacy Technician. She is a 2017 graduate of United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities. She served as Lay Pastor and Youth Leader at First Congregational UCC in Wadena and as Solo Pastor at First Congregational UCC in New York Mills. She currently serves as the Director of Outdoor Ministry of the MN Conference UCC.
Sheri and her husband live in St. Paul with their 2 dogs and 2 cats. They have two children, Nick, 26, and Kristen, 22, both of whom live in St. Paul. Sheri and Derek are grandparents to 6 cats.
Our Bridge Pastor
Rev. Sheri Nelson
Meet the Team!

Carson
Schneider
Pianist & Accompanist

Now Hiring!
Handbell and Choir Directors

Union Congregational Church is a member of the United Church of Christ (UCC). The UCC was established in 1957 from four historical denominations: Congregational, Christian, Evangelical and Reformed. Currently, there are 5,600 UCC churches and 1.2 million members throughout the United States. Historically, the UCC has always been a progressive denomination, ordaining the first African American in the 18th century, the first woman in the 19th century, and the first gay man in the 20th century. To learn more about the United Church of Christ, please visit the National United Church of Christ website, or the website for the Minnesota Conference of the United Church of Christ.