Neil became the pastor at First Congregational in August, 2023. He loves helping cultivate the kind of community that seems like it shouldn’t exist: a place where you feel a sense of deep, joyful belonging but also can’t wait to encounter new people who aren’t like you. Being at home, but also being open to adventure.

Neil grew up in a secular household; his parents instilled in him a love of science and the arts and a concern for justice and the common good. He started going to church after an experience that he couldn’t describe in any way other than using the word “God.” He came to fall in love with the things that happen in community centered around Christ: He loves telling stories and wrestling with ideas (preaching), listening to people’s stories and honoring their worth (ministry and pastoral care), and constantly rediscovering our true, joyful life in God through prayer, music, and worship.

Neil enjoys riding his bike, playing guitar, reading books, dancing with friends, but most of all playing with his kids.

A graduate of Harvard College and the University of Chicago Divinity School, Neil lives in St. Peter with his wife Allison, a fiber and textile artist, and their three children.


Contact: neilellingson@mankatoucc.org

Pat grew up in the United Church of Christ. She was baptized, confirmed, and married in Peace UCC in Minnesota Lake, and remains well connected with the MN Conference and National gatherings -- she’s always excited to meet UCC members from across the country!

Pat has been married to her husband, Larry, for over 40 years, has a daughter, son-in-law, and two handsome grandsons who are active in the life of our church, and is retired after 37 years of teaching in the areas of Special Education and Early Childhood Education.


Email: patfirstucc@gmail.com

Diana joined our staff as 'house musician' in August, 2016. In addition to organ and piano, she plays a variety of wind instrument. In 2019, Diana also took on the role of Office Coordinator.

"I grew up in a musical family, as did my husband, Ken. We share our musical talents in a duo called Heartstrings, playing guitar, hammered dulcimer, tin whistle, and recorder. We have two children and five grandchildren. I look forward to sharing in worship with all of you!"

Donna has been Assistant to our Office Coordinator since 2008 and Financial Secretary, managing records of contributions, since 2009. She is retired from her work as a database programmer in the Twin Cities, and now, in addition to serving as our clerk since 2010, is also a devoted member of the choir.

Bio coming soon.