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About Us

Emanuel Church, Hales Corners

United Church of Christ

Meet the Staff

Josh Simon, Pastor of Emanuel United Church of Christ, Hales Corners, WI

Rev. Josh Simon

(he/him)

Pastor

I was born and raised in Wisconsin, just outside Seymour (home of the hamburger!).  

I fell in love with the United Church of Christ back in college. As a gay man, I was looking for a denomination that affirmed and celebrated LGBTQ+ people. In fact, when I joined the UCC it was the only denomination to do so on a national level in the country. 

My ministry revolves around the two commandments Jesus emphasized: love God; love your neighbor as yourself. I hope I can help Emanuel Church extend that loving welcome to all.  

So feel free to bring your hopes and dreams, fears and tears, and even your questions and doubts. You can belong here. 

Karin McElrone, Office Administrator of Emanuel United Church of Christ, Hales Corners, WI

Karin

(she/her)

Office Administrator

I have been a member of Emanuel for over 30 years and have been working here for 10 years. I was married at Emanuel and raised both of my daughters in the church. Growing up in this church and now working here makes Emanuel like a family to me. 

Alongside my official duties, I also volunteer to teach Sunday School and help with Vacation Bible School every summer, which provides me the opportunity to work with the children who are full of energy and excited to learn. 

Our congregation has always been such an inviting and caring group of members, which keeps me continuing to help it grow!

Mark Breutzmann

Music Director

I’ve been the Music Director of Emauel Church since July 1991. I wear many hats here, including organist, senior choir director, and youth choir director. Overall, I tend to all the music programs. 

When I’m not at church working with music, I chase several interests. I love studying anthropology, archaeology, and astronomy. I’m fascinated by nature, whether it be gardening and plants or meteorology. And how can I not mention my love for cats and dogs?

I love Emanuel Church because they are a friendly and diverse group of people who appreciate all types of music, which brings us closer to experiencing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the Realm of God.

What We Stand For As A Community of Faith

An adult with children around a table for Sunday School

Mission

We strive to make a real difference in lives, both inside and outside the church. 

Community

We make space for others through extravagant hospitality. 

Education

We are committed to exploring faith, discernment, and spiritual growth. 

Family

We support families of every configuration.

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Dream Statement

  • We are a growing, mission-driven community in Christ, providing opportunities for every person to explore their faith and passions to serve God and work with others.
  • We seek to journey on Jesus’ path as modern-day disciples. 
  • We seek to extravagantly welcome everyone to engage in ministries of compassion. 
  • We hold crucial conversations causing us to grow in our faith and realize the deep love of God. 
  • We expect to learn and grow from your presence among us.

We Are A Congregation Of The United Church Of Christ

A Strong & Faithful Christian Tradition

The United Church of Christ is a Protestant mainline Christian denomination. Its roots go all the way back to the Protestant Reformation of the 16th century. 

Our demonimation’s mission:

We welcome all, love all, and seek justice for all. 

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