Garden Prairie United Church of Christ
About Garden Prairie UCC
A welcoming community of faith rooted in the heart of Garden Prairie, Illinois.
Our History
Garden Prairie United Church of Christ has been a cornerstone of faith and community in Garden Prairie, Illinois for generations. Founded by families who settled this prairie land, our congregation has grown and changed while remaining anchored in the love of God and neighbor.
Through the decades we have celebrated milestones, weathered hardships, and always found our way back to one another — gathered around Word, Table, and the bonds of Christian fellowship. Our building, our traditions, and our people carry the stories of those who came before us.
Today we continue that legacy, welcoming all who seek a place to belong, to grow in faith, and to serve the wider community. The very first church in Amesville, now known as Garden Prairie, was established in 1840. This church was organized in a schoolhouse and was called the Congregational Church. In 1843 a Methodist church was started. It was the merger of the Methodist and the Congregational Church in 1963 that makes our church today called the Garden Prairie United Church of Christ.
Our Mission
"To worship God, grow in faith together, and serve our neighbors with open hearts and open doors."
Radical Welcome
We believe every person is a beloved child of God. No matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcomed here.
Rooted in Scripture
We draw wisdom and guidance from the Bible, reading it with open minds and hearts in the tradition of the United Church of Christ.
Community & Service
Faith is lived out in relationship. We care for one another and reach beyond our walls to serve our neighbors near and far.
Joyful Worship
We gather each Sunday to praise God through music, prayer, and the proclamation of the Good News — with joy and gratitude.
What We Believe
As part of the United Church of Christ, we hold to the historic Christian faith while embracing a spirit of ongoing reformation. Our motto: "God is still speaking."
One God, Three Persons
We affirm faith in God the Creator, Jesus Christ the Redeemer, and the Holy Spirit who sustains and guides us.
The Bible
Scripture is the living Word of God, interpreted through reason, tradition, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Baptism & Communion
We celebrate two sacraments — Baptism and the Lord's Supper — as visible signs of God's grace, open to all.
An Open and Affirming Church
We are committed to the full inclusion of all people in the life and ministry of our congregation.
Our Leadership
Our congregation is led by dedicated servants of God who are committed to guiding, caring for, and growing our church family.
Pastor Brian
Pastor
Pastor Brian leads our congregation with warmth, wisdom, and a deep love for the people of Garden Prairie. He is passionate about preaching, pastoral care, and connecting faith to everyday life. Brian moved to Illinois from Dyer, IN when he was 18. After taking piano and organ lessons, he had the opportunity to become organist at his new home church, called Peace United Church of Christ in Genoa, IL and played there for 33+ years as well as was deacon during most of that time. Brian went to college to receive his Culinary Arts Degree, and currently works in the Food and Nutrition Department as a supervisor at Kishwaukee Hospital in DeKalb, IL. Brian always had a calling to go into ministry and attended the Wisconsin Damascus Project (Lay Academy). After completing the Damascus Project, Brian filled in for 6 years of Pulpit Supply for local churches. Brian has a passion for food/hospitality and interconnecting it with ministry.
Kathy McKnight
Sunday School Coordinator
Kathy coordinates our Christian education programs for children and youth, nurturing the next generation of faith in our congregation. Contact Kathy at 815-505-7070. We are also looking for someone to assist Kathy. If anyone is interested, please contact Kathy or you may also contact Kay Wych at 815-861-4117
Church Council
Our Church Council provides leadership and oversight for the congregation, working alongside our pastor to guide the ministry and mission of Garden Prairie UCC.
- Kay WychModerator
- Marilyn OsterbergTreasurer
- Brian EidePastor
- Trina Holmes
- Steve McKnight
- Gary Blaquiere
Part of the United Church of Christ
Garden Prairie UCC is a congregation of the United Church of Christ — a mainline Protestant denomination with roots in the Congregational, Reformed, Evangelical, and Christian traditions. The UCC is known for its commitment to justice, its open and affirming stance, and its motto: "God is still speaking."
Learn more about the UCC