First Congregational UCC in Elmhurst Welcomes New Settled Pastor

The congregation of First Congregational United Church of Christ in Elmhurst is pleased to announce the calling of Rev. Brian Louis as its new settled pastor. Following a weekend of meet-and-greet events and a worship service on June 28–29, the congregation voted overwhelmingly to extend a call, which Rev. Louis accepted.

Rev. Louis most recently served as pastor of Faith Presbyterian Church in Sierra Vista, Arizona. He was ordained in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) after earning his Master of Divinity from the University of Chicago Divinity School in 2022. Prior to entering ministry, he worked as a journalist for 25 years, including 12 years as a business and finance reporter for Bloomberg News in Chicago. A native of Marshfield, Wisconsin, he holds a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry in creative writing and public theology from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.

His background in journalism, combined with his theological training and pastoral experience, brings a unique perspective to ministry and community leadership. Rev. Louis’s arrival marks the conclusion of a four-year pastoral search process, and the congregation is excited to begin this new chapter in the life of the church.

Rev. Louis will preach his first sermon as settled pastor on Sunday, August 17. The community is warmly invited to attend and welcome him to Elmhurst.