Rev. Shawn Garan, Senior Minister

Shawn leads Sunday services and ministers to the needs of the church body.

  • Rev. Shawn Garan brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role as the Senior Pastor. He holds a Master's of Divinity degree with a specialization in theology and missions from Alliance Theological Seminary, showcasing his dedication to deepening his understanding of faith and spreading the message of God's love.

    In addition to his theological education, Shawn is currently in his fourth year as a resident psychoanalyst at the Blanton Peale Institute in NYC. This unique background allows him to provide valuable insights and support to individuals on their spiritual and emotional journeys.

    Shawn and his wife, Ashley, have been happily married since 2009. They relocated to Southbury in 2022 with their three children: Molly (12), Max (12), and Abram (2). A long-suffering Mets fan and a dedicated family man, Shawn cherishes spending time with his kids, whether it's enjoying e-bike adventures or simply exploring the beautiful UCCS campus while immersed in his favorite books.

    Rev. Shawn Garan is not only a devoted servant of God but a compassionate leader who deeply values the well-being of his congregation and community.

Ellie Strathdee, Associate Pastor

Pastor Ellie oversees all of the UCCS children and youth programming and leads a weekly children’s message during Sunday service.

  • Ellie's unwavering faith and pursuit of God have illuminated her path, revealing the profound connection between knowing God and understanding her own identity. This profound understanding has empowered her creative spirit to manifest her inward journey outwardly, embracing various forms of expression.

    Throughout her journey, Ellie has discovered that nature, music, movement, and the narratives of the individuals she has encountered serve as conduits through which she experiences a profound closeness to God. In these moments, she senses an intimate connection that nurtures her soul and allows her to delve deeper into her faith.

    Ellie's journey is a testament to the transformative power of a steadfast relationship with God. It serves as an inspiration for others, reminding them that through a profound connection with the divine, they too can overcome any challenge that comes their way.

    May Ellie's unwavering faith and indomitable spirit continue to ignite hope and resilience in those who cross her path.

CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP

​Lay leadership is a pivotal force driving the operations of our church, ensuring its effective functioning and guiding its future direction. At the heart of this leadership structure is the Church Council, which serves as a driving force for implementing policies, making important financial decisions, and formulating strategic plans.

Comprised of dedicated individuals, the Council brings together the Officers of the church, representatives from various Boards, and our esteemed Pastors. This diverse and collaborative team embodies the collective wisdom and insights of our church community.

Leading the Council is the President, whose pivotal role spans a three-year term. To ensure a seamless transition of responsibilities and effective leadership, the President initially serves as the Vice President, familiarizing themselves with the intricacies of the position. Then, they assume the role of the President, guiding the Council through its crucial decision-making processes and inspiring the community with their vision. Finally, as the Immediate Past President, they continue to contribute their valuable experience by mentoring their successor.
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Through this well-defined structure, our lay leaders cultivate an environment of shared responsibility and collaborative decision-making. This approach ensures continuity, expertise, and a steady hand in guiding our church towards a future of growth and spiritual flourishing.


We are incredibly grateful for the commitment and dedication of our lay leaders, whose unwavering service fosters a strong and vibrant community. Their selfless contributions shape the destiny of our church, allowing us to fulfill our mission and make a lasting impact in the lives of our members and beyond.