All People

I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. - John 13:34


We strive to demonstrate in all ways that “no matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.” We commit to the ongoing work of an Open and Affirming congregation, trusting in God’s grace and guidance from the Holy Spirit to fulfill this affirmation.


We encourage each other to bring questions, experience joy, feel included, and be part of something greater than ourselves. Learn more about the United Church of Christ.


Our Open and Affirming (ONA) Statement: 


"We the members of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ value and welcome a diverse congregation. We believe all persons are created in God’s image and are loved, valued and blessed equally by God. We celebrate everyone including people of all ages, races, cultures, sexual orientation, gender identities and expressions, family configuration, economic circumstances, physical, cognitive or emotional abilities, education, or spiritual and religious traditions. We hereby declare ourselves an Open and Affirming Christian community, that all persons are invited to fully share and participate in leadership, ministry, fellowship, worship, sacraments, responsibilities, blessings and joys of our church family."

Our Story

In 2009 we found ourselves at a crossroads. Like many churches with old buildings, our maintenance costs became more than our budget for ministry and mission. We decided that the future quality of our ministry was more important than a structure or its nostalgia, and we sold our building in downtown Elgin - our church home for over 100 years. We worked hard and prayed hard for the chance to continue our ministry in a new space and with a renewed vision to "be the church." In 2012 we completed construction of our new church on Plank Road - still serving Elgin, but now also neighbors with Gilberts, Hampshire, Pingree Grove, and Campton Hills. In December 2017 we made the final payment on our mortgage. Rooted and grounded in Christ's love and example, we continue to love God and seek meaningful ways to love one another.